Man in Ballet Costume Wearing a Turban

"Man in Ballet Costume Wearing a Turban" is a compelling drawing attributed to the style of Amedeo Modigliani (Italian, 1884-1920). Executed using blue crayon on cream wove paper, the composition captures a figure in dramatic, theatrical dress, merging the unexpected formality of a turban with the fluid attire characteristic of a ballet costume. The drawing technique emphasizes clean, expressive lines, typical of the modernist approach to figuration prevalent in the early 20th century. To ensure longevity, the delicate wove paper support is perimeter mounted onto tan wove paper.

While the assigned dating range (1904-1954) suggests complexities in definitive attribution or provenance, the work displays characteristics consistent with the emotionally resonant portraiture for which Modigliani is celebrated. The work reflects the artist’s roots in Italy and his subsequent immersion in the dynamic bohemian artistic life of Paris. This classification as a drawing underscores the role of preliminary studies and rapid sketching in the development of 1884-1920’s distinctive style.

The subject matter, featuring a male figure in exotic and performative garb, aligns with the period’s fascination with stylized portraiture and the developing dramatic arts scene. As a valuable example of early 20th-century draftsmanship, this piece resides within the distinguished collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. As is common with many historic works, authorized prints may be available through museum or public domain archives, promoting continued scholarly access to this era of art history.