Portrait of a Female Model
- Original dimensions
- 36.5 x 45 cm
- Museum
- Munch Museum
- Year
- 1923
Scene depicted
The painting “Portrait d'un modèle féminin” depicts a woman with a thoughtful gaze, surrounded by an atmosphere of melancholy and contemplation. Munch uses color and form to capture not only the appearance of his model but also the very essence of her inner being. This masterpiece speaks of solitude and the depth of human feelings.
Historical context
Created in 1923 in Oslo, Norway, this painting is part of the expressionist movement, characterized by an intense exploration of human emotions. The canvas is currently housed in the Munch Museum, which holds an impressive collection of his works. It testifies to the artistic legacy of a man whose sensitivity redefined the way to look at the world.
Place in the artist's career
This painting represents a turning point in Munch's career, marking a period of artistic maturity where he explores themes of love and loss. Compared to other works such as “The Scream” and “The Madonna,” this canvas reflects a technical evolution, where emotion takes precedence over form.
Anecdote
“Painting is the poetry that we see rather than the one we hear,” Munch is said to have remarked while observing the light of a spring morning. This canvas is not just a portrait; it is a meeting with the human soul, a suspended moment where a crossed face has shaken his artistic gaze.
Major exhibitions
Edvard Munch and his models: 1912-1943