Nu De Face, Bras Levés 1911

Amedeo Modigliani made this ink drawing of a nude woman with raised arms, sometime in the early 20th century. It exemplifies the modernist fascination with the human form and the loosening of academic constraints in art. The sketch is rendered with bold, contouring lines, creating a sense of volume and presence. The woman's stylized face and elongated features reflect Modigliani's engagement with Primitivism and the art of non-Western cultures that had a deep impact on the avant-garde in Paris. The institutional context of early 20th century art in Paris, marked by the rise of independent galleries and salons, enabled artists to challenge traditional norms and explore new forms of representation. To fully grasp the significance of this work, scholars often consult period publications, artists' correspondence, and exhibition reviews. The meaning of art is always tied to the social and institutional conditions of its creation.