Portrait of Francisco Cardoso 1912

Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso created this “Portrait of Francisco Cardoso” using oil paints on canvas. The visible brushstrokes give texture to the sitter’s face and clothing, creating a tactile quality. Souza-Cardoso’s painting technique is very physical. If you look closely, the thickness of the oil paint adds depth and dimension to the portrait, catching the light in a way that makes the figure almost jump off the canvas. Souza-Cardoso’s work involved many hours in the studio, mixing paints and applying them with precision. His commitment to the craft of painting allowed him to imbue the portrait with a sense of personality and presence. Paying attention to the labor-intensive process and the inherent qualities of oil paint allows us to understand the full meaning of the artwork and appreciate the skill and dedication of the artist.