16831 Amedeo Modigliani (1884-1920)

The painting presents a frontal portrait of a young girl against a starkly divided background. The composition is dominated by bold color blocks and simplified forms, characteristic of early modern artistic approaches. Here we see the subject positioned centrally within the frame, her gaze directed towards the viewer with an unsettling directness.
Her features are rendered in a stylized manner; the eyes are large and intensely blue, contrasting sharply with the reddish-brown tones of her skin and hair. The lips are thin and slightly parted, contributing to an expression that is difficult to interpret – it could be interpreted as apprehension, vulnerability, or perhaps even a quiet defiance. Her dark hair is pulled back into simple braids, emphasizing the smoothness of her forehead and the prominence of her eyes.
The artist placed the girl against a background divided diagonally. To her left, a deep blue area provides a cool counterpoint to the warm hues of her skin and clothing. The right side features a textured brown surface that resembles wood paneling or a rough wall, creating a sense of enclosure and perhaps suggesting a rural setting.
The color palette is limited but impactful. The use of red for the girl’s garment draws immediate attention and could symbolize vitality, passion, or even a degree of discomfort depending on interpretation. The blue background introduces an element of melancholy or distance. The overall effect is one of emotional intensity conveyed through simplified forms and a restricted range of colors.
Subtexts within the painting suggest themes of innocence confronted with an unknown world. The girl’s direct gaze implies a challenge to the viewer, while her expression hints at underlying anxieties or uncertainties. The stark background reinforces this sense of isolation and vulnerability. It is possible that the work explores the complexities of childhood, the transition from naivete to awareness, or the psychological impact of societal constraints.