plate no. 9216

Fruit Dish

Georges Braque, 1908

oil, canvasCubismstill lifefruitbowlstill lifecubism

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into simpler geometric shapes and how to use a limited color palette to create a cohesive composition.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 7 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the fruit bowl and fruit, focusing on geometric forms.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color using a limited palette of browns, grays, and creams.
step 03
Define the edges of the shapes with darker tones to create contrast and separation.
step 04
Add highlights to the fruit and bowl to create a sense of volume.
step 05
Refine the shapes and colors, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone.
step 06
Add any final details or adjustments to the composition.
step 07
Allow paint to dry and add a varnish coat.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · payne's gray · burnt sienna

Mix different ratios of raw umber, yellow ochre, and titanium white to achieve the various shades of brown and cream. Use payne's gray to darken the shadows and burnt sienna to add warmth to certain areas.

techniques