Italian painter, sculptor and draughtsman, Amedeo Modigliani actively began painting in Paris in 1906. He studied the Italian Renaissance painters, and because of the linear similarities of his work, has often been compared to Botticelli.

While in Paris, he was influenced by the Fauves and Cubists, as well as by the sculptor Brancusi, yet Modigliani is most often described as an individualist since his work does not reflect or have any connection with the art movements of his time. Extremely elongated figures of women are common in his art. "La Femme … l'ventail" illustrates his use of simplified form and graceful lines. The influence of African art is also apparent in this particular painting. Modigliani was addicted to drugs and alcohol and eventually died from tuberculosis. He was, however, first and foremost, an artist and was extremely devoted to his art in spite of his obsessions.