Gris The siphon, 1913, 81x65 cm, Rose Art Museum, Brandeis U Juan Gris (1887-1927)

The composition presents a still life rendered in a fractured and fragmented style. Here we observe several objects – a bottle, glasses, and what appears to be a pitcher or jug – deconstructed into geometric planes and presented from multiple viewpoints simultaneously. The artist has eschewed traditional perspective, opting instead for an analytical approach that dissects the forms and reassembles them on the picture plane.
A dominant verticality is established by the arrangement of these fragmented shapes, which are layered one upon another to create a sense of depth despite the lack of conventional spatial cues. A palette of muted greens, browns, whites, and blacks contributes to a somber and restrained atmosphere. The colors are not used representationally; rather, they serve to delineate the various planes and emphasize the structural breakdown of the objects.
The surface is characterized by a deliberate flatness, with minimal modeling or shading. Lines, often white or light in color, trace the edges of these geometric forms, further reinforcing their separation and independence. These lines are not merely outlines but act as visual delimiters, contributing to the overall sense of fragmentation.
Subtly embedded within this formal structure is an exploration of perception itself. The simultaneous presentation of multiple perspectives suggests a questioning of singular viewpoints and a desire to represent the complexity of how we experience reality. The deconstruction of recognizable forms challenges the viewers expectations and invites a more active engagement with the artwork.
The absence of any narrative context or emotional cues contributes to a sense of detachment and intellectual inquiry. It is not merely a depiction of objects, but an investigation into their essential structure and how they are perceived. The work seems less concerned with beauty or sentimentality than with the analytical process itself – a visual dissection of form and space.