The artwork titled “Glass on a Table,” created by Georges Braque circa 1909 in France, is a significant contribution to the Analytical Cubism movement. This oil on canvas measures 34.9 by 38.7 centimeters and is classified under the still life genre. Currently, the artwork is housed in the Tate Modern, located in London, United Kingdom.
“Glass on a Table” is an epitome of Analytical Cubism, characterized by its deconstructed representation of reality, where objects are broken down into their geometric components and simultaneously viewed from multiple perspectives. The painting exhibits a muted color palette typical of the movement, favoring browns, grays, and ochers. Braque’s work here indicates his exploration of spatial ambiguity and the complex interplay of shapes and planes that challenge traditional three-dimensional perspective. The fragmented elements suggest a table setting, with a glass at the center, but the forms interlock and overlap, disrupting the viewer’s conventional perception and encouraging a more interactive visual experience. Despite the abstraction, there is an inherent order and rhythm to the composition, which reflects the artist’s meticulous study of form and light. The precise dimensions and the painting’s existence in a renowned contemporary art museum underscore the significance of this piece within both Braque’s oeuvre and the broader context of early 20th-century modern art.