The artwork “Bottle and Fish” by Georges Braque, dating from 1941 and originated in France, is associated with the Cubist movement. Depicting a still life arrangement, the artwork exemplifies the principles of Cubism in its rendering of objects. The genre of still life is a principal theme within Braque’s oeuvre, exploring the dynamic between object and space. Currently, the artwork is housed at the Georges Pompidou Center in Paris, France.
“Bottle and Fish” showcases elements typical of Braque’s mature style, where objects are broken into planes and reassembled in an abstracted form. The composition is balanced, framing a fish alongside a bottle and a piece of fruit, perhaps an egg or a lemon, positioned against a darkly clothed table that starkly contrasts the lighter background. The utilization of muted and monochromatic tones, interspersed with highlights, contributes to the depth and dimensionality of the scene. The background features geometrical elements — likely a simplified depiction of the surroundings, possibly a window — that both complement and juxtapose the main subjects, typifying the Cubist concern with the fragmentation of perspective and the interplay between shape and form. Braque’s signature, discretely affixed to the bottom corner, completes the artwork, offering a sense of authorship and authenticity.