Abstract Portrait by Max Bilde

A mid-century abstract expressionist portrait by Swedish artist Max Bilde (1919-2011). This stylised, minimalist work depicts a figure from the shoulders upwards in tight, intimate focus. The figure is represented in a deconstructed abstract form. A flurry of thick lime green brushstrokes represent the facial features, with emphasis to the right side perhaps portraying a shadow. A thick, sweeping band of electric blue drapes from the centre of the top of the head and only down the left side of the face and neck as though to represent the hair. The rest of the face and neck is defined only with spontaneous off-white strokes and areas of unpainted canvas framed by green and blue.

Our figure is fascinating and enigmatic. The artist has used a bold limited palette, asymmetry and spontaneous, flourishing brushwork to produce a dynamic work of raw emotional energy. 

Oil on canvas, signed lower left. Signed, titled and dated '67' verso. Presented in the artist's original, nailed together, black wooden frame.

Dimensions including frame:
Height: 57 cm / 22.44  inches
Width: 52 cm / 20.47 inches
Depth: 4.5 cm / 1.77 inches
(All measurements are approximate).

CONDITION NOTE:
Vintage painting in good condition with light signs of age and use. Original vintage frame included is in good condition with some signs of age and use. Please see all photos for details.

ARTIST BIO
Max Torben Bilde, born February 6, 1919 in Vasa parish in Gothenburg, died December 31, 2011 in Täby, was a Swedish painter.

Bilde first studied art with Isaac Grünewald from 1942 to 1944, later applying to the Copenhagen Academy of Fine Arts from 1945 to 1946 and further studies at the Academy in Paris. He began painting in 1942 and held his first exhibition in Stockholm in 1950. He exhibited separately at Gummeson 's Art Gallery in 1962.

Among Bilde's public works are some renovations of medieval painted cathedral windows in French churches. His art consists of still lifes  portraits, mosaics, stained glass, nude studies and landscape paintings in an expressionist style. Bilde is represented at Moderna Museet, Postmuseum, and Linköpings Museum.

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