The Bicycle (c.1961; France) by Georges Braque

The Bicycle - Georges Braque - c.1961; France

Artwork Information

TitleThe Bicycle
ArtistGeorges Braque
Datec.1961; France
Art MovementExpressionism
Current LocationPrivate Collection

About The Bicycle

“The Bicycle” is an artwork created by Georges Braque circa 1961 in France. This piece is associated with the Expressionism movement and falls within the genre of still life. The artwork is part of a private collection, emphasizing its exclusivity and the personal value attributed to it by its collectors.

The artwork depicts a bicycle as the central motif, represented in an abstract manner characteristic of Braque’s later works. The background of the painting features a blend of sky blue with soft, cloud-like formations that appear to be floating, rendered in what seems to be a rapid and spontaneous manner. The bicycle is composed of geometric and organic shapes, with a larger emphasis on form rather than realistic detailing. A contrast is observed in the application of paint, varying between thin washes and thicker, more expressive brushstrokes.

The palette of the artwork is largely muted, with shades of brown, green, and blue dominating the composition. Accents of white can be observed, which may represent light reflecting off the bicycle or elements in the surrounding area. The outline of the bicycle’s wheels and frame is discernible, yet these features are broken and reconfigured, reflecting the influence of Cubism – a movement Braque notably co-founded – in this later expressionist piece.

In essence, “The Bicycle” exemplifies a fusion of abstraction and figuration, a hallmark of Braque’s exploration of visual perception, and continues to communicate the essence of the object while inviting the viewer to interpret the composition through the lens of emotion and expression.

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