JEAN METZINGER

FRANCE

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Jean Metzinger (1883-1956) was a prominent French artist and a leading figure in the Cubist movement of the early 20th century. Born in Nantes, France, Metzinger showed an early passion for art and went on to study at the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Influenced by the works of Paul Cézanne and the geometric abstraction of Robert Delaunay, Metzinger developed a unique artistic style that focused on the deconstruction of traditional representation. His iconic works, such as "Tea Time" and "At the Cycle-Race Track," demonstrated his mastery of intricate, fragmented forms and a sophisticated use of color, establishing him as a key player in the avant-garde art scene.

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Metzinger's impact on the Cubist movement extended beyond his artistic contributions; he was also a prolific writer and theorist, penning influential essays that helped shape the theoretical underpinnings of Cubism. His dedication to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and his commitment to intellectual discourse earned him recognition as one of the pioneers of modern art. Today, Jean Metzinger's legacy lives on, inspiring artists worldwide to explore new realms of creativity and challenge the status quo in the ever-evolving world of art.

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This rare painting is from Jean Metzinger's early years as an artist. At this time, much of his work fell into the style of post impressionism. This piece is estimated by The Jean Metzinger Association to have been created between 1902 and 1903, when Metzinger was only 19 or 20 years old.