“Still Life on a Table” is an exquisite exemplar of Synthetic Cubism, crafted by the esteemed artist Georges Braque in 1918. As an oil on canvas, the artwork bridges traditional still life compositions with the fragmented geometry characteristic of Cubism. Measuring 129 cm by 71 cm, this piece of art is housed in the prestigious Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States.
The artwork presents a complex arrangement of shapes, colors, and patterns, meticulously interwoven to create the impression of everyday objects situated on a table. The subdued palette consists predominantly of earthy tones, punctuated by instances of muted reds and dark hues, which contribute to the sense of depth and shadow. Textual elements, in the form of stenciled letters, interrupt and overlay the visual planes, suggesting a dialogue between typography and form.
Braque’s precise technique is evident in the careful construction of overlapping geometric planes, which fracture the object’s forms into multiple facets. This fragmentation blurs the distinction between background and foreground, compelling the viewer to piece together the scene. While indicative of the cubist style, the work leans towards synthesis, integrating rather than dissecting forms, resulting in an intricate but harmonious composition.