The artwork titled “Water-bottle, Bottle, and Fruit-dish” is a creation by the esteemed artist Juan Gris, completed in 1915. The piece is rendered in oil on canvas and encapsulates the essence of Synthetic Cubism, a movement in which Gris was a prominent figure. The canvas measures 81 by 65 centimeters and falls within the genre of still life. This particular work of Gris is housed in a private collection in New York, making it an exclusive piece for those fortunate enough to view it in person.
In the artwork, the composition is fragmented and reassembled in the characteristic Cubist fashion, employing multiple perspectives to depict the objects on a flat surface. The work presents a collection of everyday items: a water bottle, another bottle, and what appears to be a fruit dish. These are interspersed with elements of geometry and overlaps that suggest depth and form, although abstracted. The color palette is relatively restrained yet includes vibrant highlights that accentuate certain aspects of the composition. Hints of text are visible, giving the impression of a newspaper, which adds to the dynamic interplay of text and image typical of Synthetic Cubism. Gris’ work demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of form and color, using these elements to create a harmonious yet complex arrangement that stimulates both the eye and the mind.