Paul Guillaume, Novo Pilota

The painting you're looking at is Modigliani's Portrait of Paul Guillaume, painted in 1915.

Paul Guillaume was both a friend and an art dealer who provided important support to Modigliani during a time when he was struggling financially.

Perhaps that's why you can sense Modigliani's affection for him in this portrait.

First, unlike the soft, flowing curves typically seen in Modigliani's work, Paul Guillaume's face is depicted with sharper, more angular features.

Modigliani often painted portraits without clearly defined pupils, but in this painting, he gave Paul Guillaume distinctly visible pupils.

And if you look at the upper left of the painting, you'll see Paul Guillaume's name clearly written in black.

In the lower left, you'll see the words Novo Pilota, meaning "New Pilot," written in white.

"New Pilot" was a nickname Modigliani gave Paul Guillaume for his role in supporting and investing in new art.

Paul Guillaume was only 23 years old when this portrait was painted.

Yet he was already a successful art dealer in the Paris art world, and you can almost sense that confidence in this portrait.

Now, take your time and enjoy the painting.

When you're ready, let's move on to the next work.