Amadeo de Souza Cardoso 1887 – 1918

Biography

Amadeo de Souza Cardoso was born on November 14, 1887, in the Portuguese village of Mancelos, where he began his journey in a nation rich with artistic tradition. Though details of his early life remain sparse, his path led him to pursue art as his life’s work, contributing to Portugal’s cultural landscape during a transformative period in European history.

His artistic career unfolded during the early twentieth century, a time of significant change and experimentation in the visual arts across Europe. Cardoso dedicated himself to his creative endeavors, becoming part of Portugal’s artistic community during these dynamic years. His commitment to his craft reflected the spirit of an era marked by both innovation and upheaval.

Amadeo’s life was cut short by the devastating influenza pandemic that swept across the world between 1918 and 1920. On October 25, 1918, while in Espinho, he succumbed to the illness that claimed millions of lives globally. His death at just thirty years old represents one of countless losses during this tragic period of history, silencing an artist whose full potential remained unfulfilled.