The Anxious Journey

1911

Moving to Paris, to his brother Andrea

In July 1911 de Chirico moves to Paris, where he joins his younger brother Andrea, who would become the writer, painter and composer known as Alberto Savinio. The move is sometimes dated to 1910.

1911

Turin: the city's “metaphysical aspect”

In July 1911, on his way to Paris, de Chirico spends a few days in Turin; he is profoundly moved by what he calls the “metaphysical aspect” of the city, especially the architecture of its archways and piazzas.

1912

First shows at the Salon d'Automne

From 1912 de Chirico takes part in the exhibitions of the Salon d'Automne: through his brother he meets Pierre Laprade, a member of the jury, and shows three works, among them “The Enigma of the Oracle” and a self-portrait.

1913

The first sale: “The Red Tower”

In 1913 de Chirico exhibits at the Salon des Indépendants and the Salon d'Automne; his work is noticed by Pablo Picasso and Guillaume Apollinaire, and “The Red Tower” becomes the first painting he sells.

1914

A contract with the dealer Paul Guillaume

In 1914, through Apollinaire, de Chirico meets the art dealer Paul Guillaume, with whom he signs a contract for his artistic output.

1915

Return to Italy and the hospital at Ferrara

At the outbreak of the First World War de Chirico returns to Italy; on his arrival in May 1915 he enlists in the army but is considered unfit for work and assigned to the hospital at Ferrara. The shop windows of the town inspire a series of paintings featuring biscuits, maps and geometric constructions in indoor settings.