Menashe Kadishman - Tough Bianca (Portrait of Bianca Gershuni)

Artist: Menashe Kadishman (1932–2015)
Technique: Pastel and charcoal on paper
Dimensions: 35 x 43 cm
Status: Signed in Hebrew (Lower left)
About the Artwork:
A raw and vibrant original portrait by the iconic Israeli artist Menashe Kadishman. Titled "Tough Bianca," this work depicts the artist Bianca Gershuni (the wife of Moshe Gershuni) with striking expressive power. Using bold charcoal outlines and vivid pastel accents—purple eye shadows, a bright yellow earring, and a turquoise necklace—Kadishman captures the formidable presence and artistic spirit of his subject. This piece is a fascinating example of Kadishman’s psychological portraiture, where color and line convey character as much as likeness.
About the Artist:
Menashe Kadishman (1932–2015) was a world-renowned sculptor and painter, recipient of the Israel Prize. While globally famous for his iconic sheep portraits, he was a master of capturing the human condition through diverse mediums. His work is characterized by a deep connection to the Israeli identity and landscape, exploring themes of sacrifice, motherhood, and nature. Kadishman’s art is held in prestigious museum collections worldwide, including the MoMA and the Israel Museum.