An optical modulation element, in which a pixel pinching a ferroelectric layer (104) and an orientation layer (103,103') with the liquid crystal layer being oriented thereon is formed between a pair of electrodes (102,102'), and an external voltage is applied across the electrodes in response to gradation signals to perform gradation drivings, is characterized in that the material of the orientation layer (103,103') is a high-molecular polymer with a ultrafine granular conductive substance being dispersed therein.