Georges Braque

Georges Braque, born in 1882, was a major French artist of the Cubist movement in the early 20th century. Alongside Picasso, he revolutionised art by deconstructing the traditional representation of space. His works are characterised by geometric shapes and bold angles, merging reality and abstraction.

Georges Braque: at the origins of Cubism

The relationship between Georges Braque and Pablo Picasso is an iconic artistic collaboration of the 20th century. These two pioneers of the Cubist movement maintained a creative and stimulating friendship, beginning their collaboration in the early 1900s. Together, they disrupted artistic conventions by exploring new forms and perspectives, thereby laying the foundations of Cubism.

Their collaboration was so profound that their works from this period are often difficult to distinguish. Braque and Picasso fed off each other creatively. Although their relationship experienced moments of rivalry, it nevertheless contributed to the creation of a revolutionary visual language.

Their mutual influence endured over the years, even as their artistic styles evolved. The Braque/Picasso creative duo remains a testament to the importance of exchange and creative emulation in the artistic process.

Between sculptures and paintings: the multidisciplinary Georges Braque

Georges Braque did not limit himself to revolutionising painting. His creativity extended beyond techniques and mediums. His fascination with geometric shapes and the exploration of space was not confined to the canvas but also manifested in innovative sculptures and ceramic artworks.

Braque also distinguished himself through his practice of collage, where he incorporated elements from everyday life into his works.

Among other achievements, the artist created the decoration for the ceiling of the Etruscan Room in the Louvre Museum, on the theme of the bird. He thus became the first painter to be exhibited in the Louvre during his lifetime. This theme would later feature in many of his works, with the bird and the star becoming symbols of freedom for Braque. The artist once said, "Freedom is not accessible to everyone. For many, it lies somewhere between defence and permission."

The artist passed away in Paris on 31 August 1963, at the height of a brilliant and illustrious career. He remains one of the most influential and prolific artists of the 20th century.

The legacy of Georges Braque: his most famous works of art

Among Georges Braque’s masterpieces, Violin and Candle (1910) is emblematic of his analytical period, where Braque and Picasso deconstructed reality into geometric fragments.

Grand Nude (1908) demonstrates his mastery of the nude, revisited through the Cubist lens. His Canéphores series (1920) explores three-dimensionality and the experimentation with forms. The Clarinet (1912) illustrates his transition towards synthetic Cubism, blending real elements with a more simplified aesthetic. Black Birds (1953) reflects his later period, revealing a fascination with nature and poetry.

However, one of his most iconic works remains Houses at l’Estaque (1908), encapsulating the beginning of Cubism with its treatment of volumes and perspectives. Braque constantly evolved, moving from analytical to synthetic Cubism, while exploring varied themes, from still lifes to landscapes.

Limited editions by Georges Braque on Rise Art

Looking to acquire an original edition by Georges Braque? Browse the artist’s gallery now to view original works and lithographs available for purchase.