“The Sideboard,” created in 1917, is an oil on board artwork by Juan Gris, a prominent artist associated with the Synthetic Cubism movement. This still life is part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) located in New York City, New York, United States. The artwork exemplifies the distinctive style of Synthetic Cubism, which is characterized by its construction from distinct shapes and the use of collage-like techniques.
The artwork presents a complex arrangement of geometric forms and fragmented objects that coalesce into a still life scene. Dominated by a palette of subdued earth tones punctuated by segments of black and green, the composition involves a multifaceted interplay of shapes and planes that suggest the presence of common still life elements such as bottles and other household items. The shapes are layered and superimposed to create a sense of depth and volume, flattening the space while simultaneously offering multiple perspectives within a single plane. The meticulous juxtaposition of shaded and flat areas contributes to the illusion of three-dimensionality amidst the otherwise two-dimensional surface. This representation of everyday objects, reconstructed in abstract form, invites viewers to reconsider their perception of reality through the innovative lens of Cubism.
