Carafe, Bowl and Glass by Juan Gris

Belonging to the most prolific period of modern plastic research, this work reflects a rigorous cubist thought. Conceived by the major Spanish artist Juan Gris, the painting under the name of “Carafe, Bowl and Glass” proposes a conceptual recomposition of domestic space. The painter uses still life as a laboratory to deconstruct classic monocular vision. This painting proves to be a masterpiece demonstrating the intellectual strength of its author.

On an inclined plane of raw umber and brick red color, several objects rub shoulders in a rigorous harmony. In the center, we distinguish a tall grey bottle, flanked by a white cup on the left and a blue stemmed glass on the right. Next to the glass, a small card or a printed note, decorated with fine writing, brings an unexpected realistic note. The shapes are sleek, reduced to precise geometric silhouettes of grey, white and black tones. The black and brown background creates a powerful contrast that projects the objects towards the viewer. A frank light sculpts each volume with remarkable clarity.

The artist shows his virtuosity in using oil paint to render outlines of absolute sharpness. His ability to balance muted colors and intense contrasts bears witness to an exceptional expertise. This technical mastery gives this still life an unequaled architectural rigor.