Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Tea and Grape

Georges Braque

Name Class Date
Georges Braque, Tea and Grape. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Georges Braque wahooart.com/en/artists/georges-braque/
Artist’s dates
1882 – 1963
Medium
Print
Movement
Cubism Objects broken apart and shown from several viewpoints at once, all flattened onto one surface.
Artistic style
Cubist, Still Life
Influences
Picasso
Notable elements
Fruit, table setting
Subject or theme
Everyday objects

Copyright This work is still under copyright. Georges Braque died in 1963; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it remains in force until 2033. The image is shown here for classroom reference; rights remain with the rights holder.

Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 7, 2026

Tea and Grape — Georges Braque Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Tea and Grape — Georges Braque

When might this have been painted?

  1. 1880
  2. 1890
  3. 1900
  4. 1910
  5. 1920
  6. 1930
  7. 1940
  8. 1950
  9. 1960

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 81 at death.

Shaded: the lifetime of Georges Braque (1882–1963) every dated painting, decade by decade

First works: up to 1910 Main working years: 1910–1937 Late works: from 1937

Those three bands split the works this catalogue has a date for into a first quarter, a middle half and a last quarter. They are not the artist’s complete output: a thin stretch may be a gap in the record rather than a quiet spell. The same years with the artist’s life laid along them

This record has no exact year on file — using the artist's lifetime and the work's style, what decade would you guess?

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: wahooart.com/en/art/similar/georges-braque-tea-and-grape-8LJ26J-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Quinacridone Magenta #6e5a45

    Catalogued palette

    • #6E5A45
    • #3D2F2E
    • #C08D50
    • #E9CBAC

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Earthy The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Quinacridone Magenta
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Bold How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Shadow How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Balanced Soft How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Georges Braque over the last twelve months — 59 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 44.1%36,300 visits
    2. 2 Germany 5.6%4,600 visits
    3. 3 Italy 4.9%4,000 visits
    4. 4 United States of America 4.0%3,300 visits
    5. 5 Brazil 3.3%2,700 visits
    6. 6 South Korea 3.2%2,600 visits
    7. 7 France 3.0%2,500 visits
    8. 8 Argentina 2.8%2,300 visits
    9. 9 Mexico 2.3%1,900 visits
    10. 10 Spain 2.2%1,800 visits
    11. · 49 other countries 24.6%20,400 visits

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 20 most looked-at works by Georges Braque

    1. 1 Mandola, 1910 12.3%19,500 visits
    2. 2 Man with a Guitar, 1914 9.3%14,800 visits
    3. 3 Violin and Palette, 1910 4.7%7,500 visits
    4. 4 Houses At L'estaque 4.0%6,400 visits
    5. 5 Woman Reading, 1911 3.6%5,700 visits
    6. 6 The Musician, 1918 2.6%4,200 visits
    7. 7 Harbor in Normandy, 1909 2.1%3,400 visits
    8. 8 The Gulf, Les Lecques, 1906 1.6%2,500 visits
    9. 9 Still-life with Guitar (Still-life with Mandolin), 1912 1.5%2,300 visits
    10. 10 Man with a violin, 1912 1.4%2,200 visits
    11. 11 Two Birds, 1955 1.0%1,600 visits
    12. 12 Still life with harp and violin, 1912 1.0%1,600 visits
    13. 13 Houses at L'Estaque, Kunstmuseum Bern, 1908 0.9%1,400 visits
    14. 14 Woman with a Guitar, 1913 0.8%1,300 visits
    15. 15 Violin and pitcher, Kunstmuseum Basel, 1910 0.8%1,300 visits
    16. 16 Violin and candlestick, 1910 0.8%1,200 visits
    17. 17 A Table Grise 0.8%1,200 visits
    18. 18 Guitar and Still Life on a Mantelpiece, 1921 0.7%1,100 visits
    19. 19 Big trees at Estaque, 1908 0.7%1,100 visits
    20. — Tea and Grape this painting 0.0%0 visits

    Together these works take 50.6% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 644 works by this artist, of which 365 were looked at at least once. This painting has not been looked at yet in that time — it closes the list without a rank. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 7, 2026

    Tea and Grape — Georges Braque Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Tea and Grape — Georges Braque

    Georges Braque’s “Tea and Grape”: A Cubist Still Life of Quiet Intensity

    Georges Braque's "Tea and Grape," painted around 1950, isn’t merely a depiction of fruit; it’s a carefully constructed meditation on form, color, and the subtle beauty of everyday objects. This work, rendered in an exquisite color etching and aquatint by Lacourières in Paris, exemplifies Braque's shift towards a more organic and less fractured approach to Cubism during his later years. It represents a departure from the geometric deconstruction that defined his early collaborations with Pablo Picasso, embracing instead a richer, more sensual palette and a heightened sense of spatial depth.

    The composition is deceptively simple: a bowl overflowing with grapes, two apples nestled amongst them, a table draped in a subtly textured surface, and a chair providing a grounding element. Yet, within this apparent stillness lies a dynamic interplay of shapes and planes. Braque masterfully employs the techniques of etching and aquatint to create a remarkable range of tonal values – from deep blacks that suggest the shadows cast by the bowl and table to luminous whites that highlight the glistening grapes. The paper itself, Arches wove, contributes to the work’s luxurious quality, its fine texture enhancing the delicate details of the fruit and the subtle variations in color.

    The Language of Cubism Revisited

    While rooted in the principles of Cubism – the fragmentation of objects into geometric forms and their subsequent reassembly from multiple viewpoints – “Tea and Grape” moves beyond the purely analytical. Braque’s approach here is less about dissecting reality and more about capturing its essence. The bowl, table, and chair are not rendered as sharply defined entities but rather as overlapping planes that subtly suggest their three-dimensional presence. This creates a sense of ambiguity, inviting the viewer to actively participate in constructing the image.

    The influence of Paul Cézanne is palpable in Braque’s use of perspective and his emphasis on the underlying structure of objects. Like Cézanne before him, Braque seeks to represent not just what an object looks like but also how it exists in space. The careful arrangement of the fruit within the bowl, the way light falls across the table surface – all contribute to a feeling of quiet observation and contemplative beauty.

    Symbolism and Emotional Resonance

    The choice of subject matter itself is significant. A still life—a commonplace scene—becomes imbued with a profound sense of stillness and serenity. The grapes, symbols of abundance and fertility, are presented in their full ripeness, inviting the viewer to savor their beauty. The apples, often associated with knowledge and temptation, add a layer of complexity to the composition. The overall effect is one of understated elegance and quiet contemplation.

    “Tea and Grape” isn’t a vibrant or overtly dramatic work; its power lies in its restraint and subtlety. It's an invitation to slow down, to appreciate the simple pleasures of life, and to find beauty in the ordinary. Braque’s masterful control of line, tone, and texture creates a deeply affecting image that speaks to our shared human experience.

    A Collector’s Perspective

    Reproductions of “Tea and Grape” offer an exceptional opportunity to bring this iconic work into your home or office. WahooArt's hand-painted reproductions meticulously capture the nuances of Braque’s original technique, ensuring that you receive a faithful representation of this remarkable piece. The rich colors, delicate textures, and subtle tonal variations are faithfully reproduced, allowing you to experience the full emotional impact of the artwork. Whether as a statement piece in a modern interior or a charming addition to a traditional setting, “Tea and Grape” is sure to be a treasured possession for years to come.

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 7, 2026

    Tea and Grape — Georges Braque Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Georges Braque

    Born in Argenteuil, France

    Early Life and Artistic Foundations

    Georges Braque, born in Argenteuil, France, in 1882, embarked on a path deeply intertwined with the evolving landscape of modern art. His upbringing within a family of house painters and decorators instilled in him not only a technical mastery of materials but also an early appreciation for form and structure. Though initially following in his father’s trade, Braque's inherent artistic inclinations soon led him to formal training at the École des Beaux-Arts in Le Havre, marking the beginning of his journey toward becoming one of the most influential painters of the 20th century. This foundation—a blend of practical craftsmanship and academic study—would prove crucial as he later deconstructed and reimagined traditional artistic conventions.

    Moving to Paris in 1902, Braque continued his studies at the Académie Humbert, immersing himself in the vibrant artistic milieu of the city. It was here that he encountered artists like Marie Laurencin and Francis Picabia, forging connections that would shape his early development. His initial works reflected the prevailing influences of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, but a pivotal encounter with the bold colors and expressive freedom of Fauvism in 1905 ignited a new direction in his artistic exploration.

    The Embrace of Fauvism and the Dawn of Cubism

    Braque’s adoption of Fauvist principles—characterized by intense, non-naturalistic color and emotional expression—is vividly exemplified in paintings like The Patience. This period saw him working alongside artists such as Henri Matisse and André Derain, experimenting with vibrant palettes and simplified forms. However, Braque's engagement with Fauvism was not merely imitative; he infused it with a unique sensibility, tempering the movement’s unrestrained exuberance with a more restrained and analytical approach.

    A turning point arrived in 1907 with his exposure to the retrospective exhibition of Paul Cézanne's work. Cézanne’s emphasis on geometric forms and multiple perspectives profoundly impacted Braque, setting the stage for his groundbreaking collaboration with Pablo Picasso. Beginning in 1908, these two artistic titans embarked on a period of intense intellectual exchange that would give birth to Cubism—a revolutionary movement that shattered traditional notions of representation.

    Together, Braque and Picasso developed Analytical Cubism, dissecting objects into fragmented geometric shapes and presenting multiple viewpoints simultaneously. Works like Houses at L'Estaque demonstrate this early phase, showcasing a radical departure from conventional perspective and a focus on the underlying structure of forms. Their palette became deliberately muted, emphasizing form over color, as they sought to represent the totality of an object’s presence rather than merely its appearance.

    Innovation Through Fragmentation and Collage

    The partnership between Braque and Picasso continued to push the boundaries of artistic expression, leading to the development of Synthetic Cubism around 1912. This phase saw the introduction of collage—the incorporation of real-world materials such as newspaper clippings, wallpaper, and fabric into paintings. This innovation challenged the traditional hierarchy between painting and sculpture, blurring the lines between art and life.

    Braque’s pioneering use of papier collé (pasted paper) marked a significant turning point in his artistic evolution. By integrating fragments of everyday objects into his compositions, he disrupted the illusionistic space of traditional painting and introduced a new level of materiality and texture. This technique not only expanded the formal possibilities of art but also reflected a growing interest in the relationship between representation and reality.

    The outbreak of World War I in 1914 brought an interruption to this intense collaboration, as Braque was called upon for military service. His wartime experiences profoundly affected his artistic vision, leading him to explore more personal and lyrical themes in his post-war work.

    Later Years and Enduring Legacy

    Following the war, Braque’s style evolved beyond the strict confines of Cubism, incorporating elements of classical composition and a renewed interest in still life. While retaining the geometric influences that had defined his earlier work, he developed a more nuanced and contemplative approach to painting. His later landscapes and interiors are characterized by their serene atmosphere and subtle harmonies of color.

    Throughout his career, Braque remained committed to exploring the fundamental principles of form, space, and representation. He continued to experiment with different materials and techniques, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression until his death in 1963. His influence on subsequent generations of artists is immeasurable, shaping the course of modern art and inspiring countless painters, sculptors, and collagists.

    Georges Braque’s legacy extends beyond his individual artworks; he fundamentally altered our understanding of how we perceive and represent the world around us. His collaborative spirit with Picasso, coupled with his own unique artistic vision, cemented his place as a true pioneer of modern art—a master who dared to challenge conventions and redefine the possibilities of painting.

    Influences and Notable Works

    Influenced By: Henri Matisse, André Derain, Paul Cézanne

    Key Works: Houses at L'Estaque, The Patience, Violin and Palette, Mandola

    Impact on Art History: Revolutionized 20th-century art through Cubism; challenged traditional notions of perspective and representation.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Tea and Grape

    wahooart.com/en/art/download/georges-braque-tea-and-grape-8LJ26J-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Braque, Georges. Tea and Grape. n.d., https://wahooart.com/en/art/georges-braque-tea-and-grape-8LJ26J-en/
    APA
    Braque, Georges (n.d.). Tea and Grape [Painting]. https://wahooart.com/en/art/georges-braque-tea-and-grape-8LJ26J-en/
    Chicago
    Georges Braque. Tea and Grape. n.d. https://wahooart.com/en/art/georges-braque-tea-and-grape-8LJ26J-en/
    Harvard
    Braque, Georges (n.d.) Tea and Grape. Available at: https://wahooart.com/en/art/georges-braque-tea-and-grape-8LJ26J-en/

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 7, 2026

    Tea and Grape — Georges Braque Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Tea and Grape — Georges Braque

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: fruit, bowl, table. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Mandola (1910), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Cubism: Objects broken apart and shown from several viewpoints at once, all flattened onto one surface. Where can you see that in this work?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 7, 2026

    Tea and Grape — Georges Braque Part 5 · Look closely

    Art quiz

    Tea and Grape — Georges Braque

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 4 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. Which art movement is most closely associated with Georges Braque’s ‘Tea and Grape’?

      • A Surrealism
      • B Cubism
      • C Impressionism

    2. 2. The painting primarily depicts:

      • A A still life of a luxurious dining room.
      • B An abstract representation of a fruit bowl.
      • C A portrait of a seated figure.

    3. 3. What is a key characteristic of Braque’s Cubist style evident in ‘Tea and Grape’?

      • A The use of realistic shading to create depth.
      • B The fragmentation of objects into geometric forms.
      • C A focus on capturing fleeting moments in time.

    4. 4. Based on the description, what is the overall atmosphere conveyed by the painting?

      • A Energetic and chaotic.
      • B Cozy and intimate
      • C Dramatic and unsettling.

    My score: ____ out of 4

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1A · 2A · 3A · 4A

    Check any answer against the catalogue record for this painting

    Source: WahooArt.com — accessed Oct. 7, 2026

    Tea and Grape — Georges Braque Part 6 · Art quiz

    Questions & Answers

    What feeling does "Tea and Grape" by Georges Braque convey?

    "Tea and Grape" by Georges Braque conveys a calm feeling within an overall elegant mood.

    What explains the copyright situation of "Tea and Grape" by Georges Braque?

    The copyright status of "Tea and Grape" - still protected by copyright - follows from the artist's death in 1963.

    What is "Tea and Grape" about, and what atmosphere does it have?

    "Tea and Grape" shows fruit, bowl, table, braque, cubism, composition, still life, and its recorded mood is elegant.