16841 Amedeo Modigliani (1884-1920)

The painting presents a portrait of a woman rendered in a simplified, stylized manner. She stands facing forward, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that conveys both composure and a certain melancholy. The artist has employed a limited palette dominated by shades of red-brown, black, and white, creating a somber and somewhat austere atmosphere.
The figure’s features are elongated and flattened, characteristic of an expressive approach to representation rather than realistic depiction. Her dark hair is swept back from her face, framing large, almond-shaped eyes that possess a haunting quality. Delicate earrings adorn her ears, providing a subtle detail amidst the overall simplification. She wears a dark garment with a high collar, contrasted by a white blouse visible at the neckline, which introduces a touch of lightness and refinement to the composition. Her hands are clasped in front of her, one holding what appears to be a slender object – perhaps a walking stick or a decorative rod – which adds an element of formality to her posture.
The background is largely monochromatic, consisting of dark planes that recede into indistinct space. A lighter area on the right side suggests a window or opening, allowing for a glimpse of brighter tones and hinting at a world beyond the immediate confines of the portrait. The name Almāisa appears inscribed in the upper right corner, adding a personal dimension to the work.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of introspection and restrained emotion. The womans direct gaze and somber coloring suggest an inner life that is complex and perhaps burdened by unspoken feelings. The stylized rendering emphasizes her psychological state over physical likeness, creating a sense of universality rather than individual specificity. The limited color palette reinforces the mood of quiet contemplation, while the formal pose and the presence of the object in her hand imply a certain social standing or adherence to convention. Overall, the work conveys an impression of dignified melancholy and understated elegance.