Famous paintings · Cubism
1903 – 1930
Ask for the most famous Cubism paintings and you will hear of Marc Chagall's I and the Village (1911, MOMA - Museum of Modern Art), Pablo Picasso's The Three Musicians (1921, MOMA - Museum of Modern Art), Pablo Picasso's The Young Ladies of Avignon (1907, MOMA - Museum of Modern Art), Georges Braque's Mandola (1910, Tate Gallery) and Marc Chagall's The Birthday (1915, Museum of Modern Art). The list runs to 100 paintings by 28 artists, from 1903 to 1930, each with the collection that holds it today.
The ranking
Ranked by how widely each painting is known. The artist, the date, the size of the original, the museum that holds it today — and one detail to look for.
1911Oil on canvas191 × 150 cmMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City
Measuring 191 x 150 cm, it’s a substantial piece that commands attention, drawing viewers into a world steeped in personal memory and universal symbolism. It isn’t a literal depiction but rather an emotional reconstruction – a dreamscape populated by fragmented figures and scenes.
Look forfaceshorsevillage scenetree
1921Oil on canvas201 × 223 cmMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City
This character holds a grey clarinet between small, brown hands. In the center, a figure dressed as Harlequin features a red and gold diamond-patterned costume. Some interpretations suggest these figures represent individuals close to the artist, such as the poet Guillaume Apollinaire and the poet Max Jacob.
1907Oil on canvas244 × 234 cmMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City
It represents Picasso's conscious break with representational norms, a bold step towards abstraction that would forever alter the course of visual expression. Influences from Africa & Iberia: The influence of African tribal masks is strikingly evident in the figures on the right, whose faces are rendered with mask-like qualities.
Georges BraqueCubism
1910Oil on canvas (presumed)71 × 56 cmTate Gallery, London
The painting is characterized by an intensely fragmented composition dominated by interlocking facets of muted tones – grays, browns, ochres, and subtle greens. Created during a period of intense collaboration with Pablo Picasso, “Mandola” exemplifies the core tenets of early Cubism.
Look forfragmented formsgeometric shapesmuted color palette
Marc ChagallCubism
1915Oil on cardboard80 × 99 cmMuseum of Modern Art, New York
This piece exemplifies Chagall’s unique synthesis of styles. Created during a period of significant social and political upheaval – on the cusp of World War I – this artwork offers a poignant glimpse into a personal world of joy and intimacy. Chagall’s life was marked by displacement and cultural transition, moving between Russia, Paris, and Berlin.
Look fordistorted figuresvibrant colorsemotional intensityfestive atmosphere
1912Oil on canvas89 × 147 cmPhiladelphia Museum of Art
This groundbreaking painting exemplifies the Cubist movement, which sought to depict objects from multiple viewpoints simultaneously. The painting features a complex arrangement of nested, conical, and cylindrical abstract elements that suggest rhythm and movement. Submitted to the 1912 Salon des Indépendants in Paris, this painting was initially rejected by the Cubists for being too Futurist.
Look forinfluenced by chronophotographygeometric abstractionmultiple perspectivesdepiction of motion through superimposed images
1918Oil on canvas55 × 39 cmMetropolitan Museum of Art, New York
The subject is Jeanne Hébuterne, Modigliani's lifelong companion and muse, depicted with his signature stylistic grace and underlying melancholy. Modigliani’s distinctive style, emerging from the vibrant Parisian art scene, bridges Post-Impressionism with early Modernism and foreshadows Cubist influences.
Look forelongated formsmuted color palettemelancholic mood
1912Oil on canvas267 × 406 cmCentre Pompidou, Paris
The artwork presents a fragmented scene centered around figures interacting with an abstracted chariot pulled by horses. This painting is deeply rooted in the principles of Orphism, an abstract art movement co-founded by Delaunay himself. The influence of both Cubism (in the fracturing of forms) and Futurism (in the depiction of speed and dynamism) is readily apparent.
Look forfragmented formsdynamic compositionbold color palette
1914Oil on canvas (presumed)130 × 73 cmMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City
Created during a period of intense artistic ferment in Paris, “Man with a Guitar” reflects the influence of Paul Cézanne’s explorations of form and perspective. Braque, alongside Pablo Picasso, pioneered Cubism as a response to traditional representational art. While seemingly abstract, “Man with a Guitar” retains subtle clues to its subject matter – hints of facial features, limbs, and the instrument itself.
Look forfragmented figuregeometric shapesmuted earth tonesinterlocking planes
Oil on canvas
This landscape captures the essence of the Mediterranean countryside with its distinctive houses and natural surroundings. The composition is dynamic and fragmented, featuring overlapping geometric forms that challenge traditional perspective while maintaining a sense of depth and dimension. Braque's innovative approach in this artwork marks a significant shift from his earlier Fauvist works to the pioneering stages of Cubism.
Look fordynamic composition with angular shapesearthy color palette of greens, yellows, browns, and graysgeometric forms and overlapping planes
1910Oil on canvas92 × 65 cmPushkin State Museum, Moscow
Departing radically from traditional artistic conventions, he dissects Vollard’s features into fragmented geometric planes. Rather than presenting a single viewpoint, Picasso simultaneously reveals multiple perspectives, challenging the viewer to actively reconstruct the image and engage with the subject on a deeper level. Ambroise Vollard was instrumental in launching Picasso's career, though their relationship wasn't without its tensions.
Look formuted color palettegeometric shapesfragmented forms
1914Oil on canvas90.5 × 59 cmStedelijk Museum Amsterdam
Surrounding this figure are abstract forms, recognizable objects like a church, ladder, and candle, intertwined with text and symbolic imagery. Formal training began in Kyiv, but Malevich quickly sought broader artistic horizons, moving towards Moscow and eventually engaging with the burgeoning avant-garde movements of Europe.
Fernand LégerCubism
1921Oil on canvas184 × 252 cmMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City
One figure reclines on a chair, another sits upright holding an object, and the third lies on her side, exuding relaxation and contemplation. Léger's distinctive style in "Three Women" is a fusion of Cubism and Art Deco. The use of bold outlines and simplified forms is reminiscent of both Cubist fragmentation and Art Deco's emphasis on elegance and symmetry.
Look forstylized figurescontrast between organic and geometric shapesbold geometric patternsvibrant color palette
1926Oil on canvas105 × 75 cmMuseo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Madrid
Dalí, however, infuses it with his own unique sensibility. The influence of earlier Cubist masters is clear, yet Dalí quickly begins to forge his own path towards the dreamlike imagery that would define his later Surrealist works. Executed with meticulous detail in oil on canvas (105 x 75 cm), the painting showcases Dalí’s technical prowess.
Fernand LégerCubism
1919Oil on canvas230 × 297 cmPhiladelphia Museum of Art
Created in 1919, this monumental painting is a defining example of Fernand Léger's mature style and a powerful statement on the burgeoning industrial age. Léger's distinctive approach, often referred to as "Tubism" – a branch of Cubism – is fully realized here.
Look forindustrial motifsgeometric shapesfragmented cityscape
1910Oil on canvasSolomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York City
The subject matter celebrates artistic and musical creation, symbolizing harmony, creativity, and the interconnectedness of artistic elements. Created in 1910, this piece exemplifies the pioneering principles of Cubism, characterized by fractured geometric forms and multiple perspectives. Georges Braque, along with Pablo Picasso, was at the forefront of developing Cubism —an innovative movement that redefined artistic representation.
Look forsubdued earthy palettefragmented geometric formsoverlapping shapes
1922Oil paint33 × 41 cmMusée Picasso, Paris
The piece features two women in mid-stride on a beach, their bodies angled diagonally across the canvas, creating a sense of forward motion that draws the viewer into the scene. Picasso's modernist approach is evident in the fluid lines and expressive brushstrokes that define the figures.
Look fordynamic poses and outstretched armsfluid and expressive lines
1920Oil on board38 × 34 cmMetropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Unlike some of his contemporaries like Wassily Kandinsky and Piet Mondrian who embraced abstraction as a path to spiritual enlightenment, Paul Klee approached it with a playful detachment. May Picture (42 x 50 cm, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Oil On Board) – A delicate and evocative depiction showcasing Klee’s sensitivity to light and color.
1914Oil on canvas54 × 76 cm
The intersecting lines and fragmented shapes symbolize the rapid passage of time and the exhilarating energy of modern life. Produced during a period of rapid technological change, this work reflects the Futurist admiration for speed, innovation, and the machine age.
Look forintersecting shapesvibrant colorsgeometric formsmultiple perspectives
1909–1910Oil on canvas120 × 170 cmKröller-Müller Museum, Otterlo
This painting isn't about what is represented, but how – a radical approach that redefined modern art. Léger presents fragmented human forms inextricably linked with the organic shapes of woodland. Created during a period of intense artistic experimentation in the early 20th century, Nudes in the Forest reflects the revolutionary spirit of Cubism.
Francis PicabiaCubism
Oil painting
The canvas presents a face stripped of its conventional grace. The eyes, mouth, and nose are rendered through a series of disjointed, abstract strokes that pull the viewer into a state of visual unrest.
1916Oil on canvas116 × 73 cm
Gris ' work exemplifies Synthetic Cubism, characterized by its geometric abstraction and fragmented forms. Unlike traditional portraits that aim for realistic representation, Gris breaks down the figure into facets, creating a multi-dimensional experience. Gris was part of a circle that included Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, and his work played a crucial role in shaping the evolution of Cubism into Synthetic Cubism.
Look forbold, angular brushstrokesmultiple perspectivesfragmented and abstracted formsgeometric shapes
Fernand LégerCubism
1918Oil on canvas46.5 × 63 cmMunson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, Oneida County
A rhythmic energy surges through the canvas as geometric shapes collide and overlap in a dense, industrial dance. Cylinders, cones, and flat planes interlock, creating a landscape where mechanical forms merge with fragmented architectural elements. There is no stillness here; instead, a sense of industrial energy vibrates through every sharp, structural line.
1909Oil on canvas80 × 80 cmArt Institute of Chicago
This piece exemplifies Braque's transition from Fauvism to Cubism, characterized by its emphasis on geometric abstraction and multiple perspectives. During this period, Braque, alongside Pablo Picasso, was pioneering Cubism, a movement that sought to break away from traditional representation. The Société des Artistes Indépendants, where Braque exhibited his works, played a crucial role in promoting avant-garde art.
Look forbold lines and fragmented shapeswarm color palette with yellow, orange, brown, and beigedynamic interplay of light and shadowgeometric abstraction and angular forms
Pablo PicassoCubism
1908Oil on canvas151 × 101 cm
Painted during Picasso's pivotal Analytical Cubist period – often referred to as “Proto- Cubism” – "Friendship" marks a decisive break from traditional artistic conventions. This innovative spirit foreshadowed Picasso’s collaborative endeavors with artists like Julio González and Jacques Lipchitz, who similarly explored sculptural forms and Cubist principles.
1912Oil on canvas80.3 × 80.3 cmMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City
While sharing their penchant for geometric fragmentation and multiple perspectives, Malevich infuses the scene with a distinctly Russian sensibility and a burgeoning spiritual dimension. “Woman with Pails Dynamic Arrangement” occupies a unique position in art history as a bridge between the representational world and the realm of pure abstraction.
1912Oil on canvas59 × 54 cmMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City
It’s a visual riddle wrapped in muted tones, demanding not passive observation but active engagement from the viewer. Duchamp deliberately dismantled the traditional depiction of female sexuality, presenting instead a fragmented, almost violently disjointed figure—a woman caught in a state of perpetual becoming.
Look forfragmented body
1915Oil on canvas
The painting features a woman sitting in front of a fireplace, wearing a black dress and having a distinctive large nose. Amedeo Modigliani's style is characterized by the use of bold lines, vibrant colors (though subdued in this particular work), and elongated forms. The painting is a great example of Modigliani's unique style, which blends elements of Expressionism and Cubism.
1903–1904Oil121 × 92 cmArt Institute of Chicago
The Blue Period wasn't simply about depicting poverty; it was an attempt to externalize internal suffering, translating personal anguish into visual form. While firmly rooted in the Blue Period, The Old Guitarist also foreshadows Picasso's groundbreaking development of Cubism.
Look fordistorted figures
1917Oil on canvas65 × 72 cmSolomon R. Guggenheim Museum, NY
“Prades, the Village” operates within a fascinating dialogue between two influential movements. Nubiola” demonstrate Miró’s singular style—a blend of Cubist fragmentation and Fauvist expressive color—solidifying his position as a pioneer of modern art. Joan Miró's “Prades, the Village” (1917) Ciurana, the Path by Joan Miró The Waggon Tracks by Joan Miró Portrait of V.
Georges BraqueCubism
1911Oil on canvas130 × 81 cm
The artwork depicts a woman engrossed in reading, though her figure is abstracted into a complex array of geometric shapes and overlapping planes. This deliberate fragmentation challenges traditional representation, reflecting Braque's fascination with multiple perspectives. Created in 1911, "Woman Reading" is a product of Braque's collaborative period with Pablo Picasso, during which they pioneered Cubism. The artwork reflects Braque's deep study of Paul Cézanne's ideas on perspective and geometry, as well as his interest in the complexities of modern life. While abstract, "Woman Reading" can be interpreted as a meditation on the fragmented nature of human experience.
Look forlinesformsearthy color palettefragmented perspectives
1911
Duchamp doesn’t aim to create a realistic portrayal of his brothers, Raymond Duchamp - Villon and Jacques Villon, engrossed in chess. Created in the wake of Paul Cézanne's groundbreaking late paintings exhibited at the Salon d'Automne in 1904, Portrait of Chess Players reflects the burgeoning influence of Cubism pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque.
1914Oil on canvas126 × 93 cmSolomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York City
The composition is a symphony of geometric shapes and bold lines, creating a sense of movement and depth. The result is a visually engaging piece that showcases Delaunay's mastery of form and color.
Look forgeometric shapesmulti-faceted compositionvibrant colors
Georges BraqueCubism
1918Oil on canvas220 × 113 cmKunstmuseum Basel
At its core, the composition hints at a scene filled with musical elements, notably a guitar, intertwined with a fragmented, cubist -inspired figure. Produced during a pivotal period in modern art history, this piece reflects Braque’s exploration of Cubism, a revolutionary movement that challenged traditional perspectives and representation.
Look forfragmented formsvibrant colorsgeometric shapeslayered textures
Piet MondrianCubism
1912Oil on canvas78.5 × 107.5 cmKunstmuseum Den Haag, The Hague
Consider Silver Tree (Haags Gemeentemuseum), a striking example of cubist influence combined with geometric abstraction. For a comprehensive understanding of Mondrian’s life and work, consult Piet Mondrian on Wikipedia.
Franz MarcCubism
1913Oil on canvas130 × 90 cmArt Institute of Chicago
Created in 1913, this monumental oil on canvas —measuring 130 x 90 cm—currently resides at the Art Institute of Chicago, offering visitors a glimpse into the artistic fervor of its time. Franz Marc was a pivotal figure in German Expressionism, co-founder of Der Blaue Reiter (“The Blue Rider”), a journal that championed artistic experimentation and spiritual exploration.
Marc ChagallCubism
1914Oil on canvas104 × 84 cmMuseum of Modern Art, NYC
While undeniably influenced by the burgeoning Cubism of Picasso and Braque—notably in the fractured perspective and flattened planes of the background— The Praying Jew firmly establishes Chagall’s own distinctive artistic voice. These reproductions are not mere copies; they are artistic interpretations created by skilled artisans who share Chagall’s passion for color, form, and emotion.
1914Oil on canvas62 × 49 cmStaatsgalerie Moderner Kunst (Munich, Germany)
Early exposure to Ukrainian folk culture instilled within him an appreciation for traditional artistic expressions which subtly informed his groundbreaking approach. Formal training commenced in Kyiv, propelling him towards Moscow and fostering connections with the burgeoning artistic currents of Europe. Malevich initially explored cubism alongside fellow artists like Georges Braque, recognizing its ability to dissect and reconstruct visual reality in fragmented forms.
Pablo PicassoCubism
1910Oil paint100 × 73 cm
Pablo Picasso's " Guitar Player" (1910) is a quintessential example of Analytical Cubism, a revolutionary movement that transformed the art world. The intricate arrangement of lines and planes suggests a three-dimensional structure, though the overall effect remains abstract. " Guitar Player" was created during the height of the Cubist movement, which sought to break away from traditional perspectives in art.
Look fordynamic interplay of light and shadowsharp angular lines defining edgesrough and layered texturesoverlapping geometric shapes (triangles, rectangles)
1912Oil on canvas80 × 80 cm
Materia is deeply rooted in the Cubist aesthetic pioneered by Picasso and Braque. However, Boccioni infuses it with a distinctly Futurist energy.
1913Oil on canvasArnot Art Museum, Elmira
The woman wears a veil, symbolizing purity and modesty – a motif frequently found in Chagall’s oeuvre rooted in Jewish folklore. Dominating the backdrop is the Eiffel Tower, erected for the Exposition Universelle of 1889, representing technological progress and France's ambition on the world stage. Chagall’s artistic vision was undeniably shaped by Cubism pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. Established in 1913, the museum houses a remarkable collection of European paintings amassed by Matthias H. Alongside Picasso and Braque, Marcel Duchamp pushed the boundaries of artistic convention with his conceptual approach—challenging notions of authorship and originality.
Franz MarcCubism
1912Oil on canvas
This striking artwork centers around a majestic feline, likely a tiger or a similar big cat, captured in a moment of quiet strength and introspection. Produced during a pivotal period in early 20th-century art, this work reflects the innovative spirit of Cubism and German Expressionism.
Look forbold geometric shapescontrasting colorsmultiple viewpoints
1905Oil on canvasPushkin Museum, Moscow
The Rose Period, spanning roughly from 1904 to 1906, marked a significant shift in Picasso’s artistic trajectory following the intensely somber Blue Period. “Girl on the Ball” isn’t born in a vacuum; Picasso was deeply influenced by a diverse range of artistic currents. Crucially, “Girl on the Ball” foreshadows Picasso's groundbreaking development of Cubism alongside Georges Braque.
Look foracrobat on ball
1912Oil on canvas79.5 × 79.5 cmYale University Art Gallery, New Haven
The painting depicts a seemingly mundane scene – a knife grinder at work. The influence of Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque's Cubism is undeniable, but Malevich infuses it with a distinctly Russian sensibility and a growing interest in dynamism borrowed from Italian Futurism. “Knife Grinder – Principle of Flickering” emerged during a period of intense artistic experimentation.
1909Oil28.5 × 38.5 cmMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City
"They are the basis of all geometric forms." The absence of organic shapes —such as dunes or trees—further underscores Mondrian’s rejection of illusionism and his commitment to presenting a purely intellectual aesthetic. Painted at the dawn of the 20th century, View from the Dunes coincided with a period of intense artistic experimentation.
Paul CézanneCubism
WatercolorMusée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux
Eschewing the frantic, broken strokes of Monet, Cézanne employs more controlled, patch-like applications of paint.
1915Oil on canvas46 × 28 cmGalleria Civica d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea, Turin
Arriving in Paris in 1906, he quickly immersed himself in the avant-garde scene, forging connections with artists like Picasso and Brâncuși. The year 1915 was a period of intense artistic development for Modigliani, marked by a refinement of his elongated forms and increasingly expressive use of color.
Look forelongated facered hairdistinctive noseearrings
Georges BraqueAnalytical Cubism
1908Oil on canvasLille Métropole Museum of Modern Art
At first glance, the viewer encounters a familiar scene of clustered buildings perched upon a sun-drenched slope. This technique—a precursor to what would become known as Analytical Cubism —allows the viewer to experience the landscape not as a static image, but as a dynamic interplay of interlocking planes and volumes.
Fernand LégerCubism
1910Oil on canvas
The layered arrangement of forms suggests a narrative rich with psychological nuance, capturing the multifaceted nature of human identity and experience. Influenced by pioneering artists like Picasso and Braque, the piece reflects a period of artistic experimentation and a desire to depict multiple facets of reality simultaneously.
Look formuted earthy palettemultiple perspectivesfragmented geometric formslayered textures
1911Oil on canvas100 × 73 cm
Bold, jagged lines and layered shapes create a dynamic, almost turbulent surface that emphasizes psychological complexity. It echoes the influence of Cubism’s fragmented perspective and the emotional intensity of Expressionism, challenging conventional portraiture and emphasizing subjective experience.
Look forlimited earthy color palettefragmented facebold lines
František KupkaOrphic Cubism
1911Oil on canvasParis Museum of Modern Art
Kupka embarked on this artistic endeavor around 1911, marking a significant shift from his earlier techniques that favored blurred boundaries. “Around a Point” showcases Kupka’s deep engagement with theories of light and color. "Around a Point" exemplifies his unique style, blending abstraction with an underlying sense of order and mathematical precision. It reflects the broader artistic currents of the early 20th century, where artists were actively seeking new ways to represent reality beyond traditional figurative forms.
1916Gouache on paper33 × 41 cmGalerie Rosengart, Lucerne
The painting depicts a lively gathering of people under a tent, surrounded by the symbols of the Jewish festival of Sukkot. Chagall's work was influenced by his Jewish heritage and his experiences in Vitebsk, Russia. As a prominent piece from 1916, it highlights the artist's early experimentation with Cubism and his exploration of Jewish themes.
Paul KleeCubism
1930–1940Oil paint
Paul Klee (1879-1940) was a Swiss-German artist whose career spanned several pivotal movements in 20th-century art. Initially trained in traditional techniques, he gradually moved towards abstraction, influenced by his travels – particularly a transformative trip to Tunisia in 1914 which ignited his passion for vibrant color and simplified forms.
Juan GrisSynthetic Cubism
1913Oil on canvas54 × 73 cm
To fully appreciate “Pears and Grapes on a Table,” one must understand its place within the evolution of Cubism. Following Picasso and Braque’s pioneering Analytical Cubism, which broke down objects into increasingly fragmented forms, Gris championed a more constructive approach – Synthetic Cubism.
1912Oil on canvas72 × 74.5 cmStedelijk Museum Amsterdam
Kazimir Severinovich Malevich (1879-1935) was a Russian artist and art theorist who fundamentally reshaped the landscape of 20th-century art. Painted during a period of significant social and political change in Russia, "Taking in the Rye" offers a glimpse into rural life at the dawn of the 20th century.
1919Oil on canvas61 × 37.8 cmDetroit Institute of Arts
The painting captures a young man, simply dressed and wearing a dark cap, gazing out with an arresting directness that belies a subtle undercurrent of melancholy. While often categorized as Expressionism, “Young Man with Cap” reveals Modigliani’s complex artistic dialogue. He moved to Paris in 1906, immersing himself in the vibrant artistic community and forging connections with artists like Picasso and Brâncuși.
Look forelongated facefiguresintense expression
1918Oil on canvas64 × 70 cmModerna Museet, Stockholm
Unlike artists like Juan Gris, who meticulously analyzed and deconstructed forms within the Cubist framework, Miró utilized external forms – the shapes of objects, the morphology of Cubism itself – as a springboard for his own expressive language. Spain was grappling with the aftermath of the Spanish-American War and the rise of fascism in Europe.
Look fortreesdonkeybirds
Marc ChagallCubism
1918Oil on canvas169 × 163 cmIsrael Museum of Jerusalem
The bold, non-naturalistic colors – particularly the dominant shades of green, pink, and purple – are hallmarks of Fauvism’s expressive power. At the heart of the painting is a man and woman – widely believed to be Chagall and his beloved wife, Bella Rosenfeld.
Look forfloating figuregeometric patterns
Franz MarcCubism
1914Oil on canvas109 × 99 cmLenbachhaus, Munich
Yet, this structural rigor is softened by the emotive intensity of Expressionism. To understand “Birds,” one must understand Franz Marc’s personal philosophy regarding color. As a leading figure of Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider) movement, Marc believed that colors possessed inherent spiritual properties capable of communicating truths that words could not.
1913
Initially drawn to the bold colors and emotional intensity of Fauvism, influenced by artists like Henri Matisse, he soon began exploring a more intellectual approach to painting. This work falls within the analytic cubism phase (1908-1912), characterized by a monochromatic palette and an intense focus on dissecting form.
1918Oil on canvasGalleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna, Rome
The subject, Anna, is rendered with the artist's signature elongated forms and intensely focused gaze, drawing the viewer into an intimate encounter. Housed at the Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna in Rome, this work exemplifies Modigliani’s unique contribution to early 20th-century portraiture. Amedeo Modigliani remains one of the most beloved and influential artists of the 20th century. Consider ‘ Portrait of Moise Kisling’ (1915) for another example of Modigliani's signature style. ‘ Portrait of Anna Zborowska’ offers a similar exploration of feminine beauty and psychological complexity.
Look forintense gazeelongated facefigures
PaintingBorusan Contemporary, Istanbul
At first glance, the viewer is greeted by an intricate mosaic of fourteen distinct colored squares, each meticulously arranged to create a sense of structured chaos. To understand the impact of Distorted Cubes, one must look toward the historical landscape shaped by Sol LeWitt himself.
Look for14 colored squaresgeometric forms
Aleksandra EksterCubism
1924Painting
The piece was inspired by the city of Venice, following the artist's presence in that location during the spring of 1924. During this period, Ekster traveled to Venice to participate in the organization of the 14th Venice Biennale. This professional role coincided with the artist's travels to Venice in the spring of 1924.
Pablo PicassoSynthetic Cubism
1912Charcoal, collage64 × 50 cmWashington University Gallery
This deceptively simple composition —a bottle of the celebrated French aperitif, Suze, accompanied by books, a cup, and a wine glass —bursts with dynamic energy and intellectual complexity, reflecting the radical shifts occurring within the art world at the time.
Look forgeometric forms
Marc ChagallOrphic Cubism
1912Oil on canvas136 × 141.9 cmSolomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York
Created in 1913, the piece emerged during the artist's formative years in France, following his relocation from Russia. The work is categorized within the movement of Orphic Cubism. Following his relocation from Russia to Paris in 1910, the artist navigated the shift from provincial life to the cosmopolitan energy of the French capital.
Oil on canvas
The Museum Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust And The University of Worcester, located in Worcester, United States, recognizes the significance of Malevich’s contributions to modern art. Malevich’s repertoire includes several other notable pieces: Landsccape - A Cubist landscape that reflects Malevich's exploration of geometric forms.
František KupkaOrphic Cubism
1913Oil on canvas150 × 180 cmMuseum Kampa, Prague
The composition presents a deceptively simple depiction of a cathedral set against an expansive twilight sky, where the soaring spire and sturdy roof act as anchors for the viewer’s wandering gaze. Moving away from the fleeting light-play of the Impressionists, Kupka utilized fractured planes and geometric abstraction to reveal the underlying structure of reality.
1915Oil on canvas
The interplay of these objects, reassembled into a layered mosaic, challenges traditional notions of representation and encourages a deeper engagement with the mundane aspects of daily life. Juan Gris, a key figure in this movement, sought to synthesize the fragmented perspectives of Cubism with a more refined, harmonious approach.
Look forfragmented perspectivesbold colorsgeometric formslayered composition
Marcel DuchampMechanistic Cubism
1923Ink and pencil on paperSeattle Art Museum
Six meticulously drawn circles dominate the composition against a stark black backdrop. Influenced by Mechanistic Cubism: Duchamp's approach was deeply rooted in Mechanistic Cubism, championed by artists like Jesús Rafael Soto. "Discs Bearing Spirals" emerged during the turbulent era of Dadaism —a movement born from disillusionment with the horrors of World War I.
1912Oil on canvas193.4 × 129.2 cmKunstmuseum Basel
The painting presents a stylized female figure through a series of fragmented, overlapping geometric shapes. The color palette is dominated by deep blues, blacks, and whites, with secondary accents of ochre, red, and pale yellow. Bold, structural lines define the edges of these fractured planes, creating a rhythmic movement across the canvas.
1911Oil on canvas72 × 74 cmThe Lehmbruck Museum, Germany
Malevich’s unwavering belief in this radical concept cemented his place as one of the founders of Suprematism, a movement that irrevocably altered the trajectory of modern art history. A transformative trip to Paris in 1912 proved decisive, exposing him to the burgeoning dynamism of European art circles and fueling his determination to forge a path entirely independent from traditional artistic conventions. “Taking in the Harvest” resides within The Lehmbruck Museum's collection, alongside other groundbreaking sculptures and artworks reflecting the spirit of modernism.
Paul KleeCubism
Museum Folkwang, Essen
The artwork presents a nocturnal scene, though not one easily deciphered through representational means. Fire at Full Moon clearly demonstrates the influence of Cubism in its deconstruction of forms and flattened perspective. Fire at Full Moon reflects this period's emphasis on reducing reality to its essential geometric components while simultaneously imbuing those forms with expressive power.
Look formoonred buildinggeometric shapes
Joan MiróCubism
1919Oil on canvas112 × 102 cm
The composition of Nude with Mirror is immediately striking. Light plays a crucial role in shaping the emotional impact of Nude with Mirror.
Look formirrorbutterflies
1930Oil on canvasKunsthaus Zürich
At first glance, the viewer is met with a striking grid, a meticulously crafted architecture of horizontal and vertical lines that seem to hold the very essence of cosmic order.
1911Oil on canvas
While the title suggests a gentle, perhaps even romantic, encounter amidst blossoming flora, the canvas itself is a daring deconstruction of the human form. Rather than relying on the soft, atmospheric light favored by the Impressionists, Duchamp employs a technique that dissects his subjects into cubes, cylinders, and interlocking facets.
1915Oil on canvas38 × 46 cmGalleria Civica di Arte Moderna e Contemporanea Torino, Turin
In the quiet corridors of art history, few portraits capture the spirit with such haunting stillness as Amedeo Modigliani’s The Red-Headed Girl. At first glance, the viewer is arrested by the subject's striking crimson hair—a deliberate, vibrant stroke of color that commands the composition against a more muted, earthy palette.
1913Oil on canvas84 × 70 cmStedelijk Museum, Amsterdam
Also noteworthy is Painting by 'Kazimir Severinovich Malevich' | Kazimir Severinovich Malevich:Musical instrument - Lamp (Cubism,Oil,), which showcases his exploration of musical instruments alongside symbolic imagery. Painting by 'Pablo Picasso' | Pablo Picasso:Guitar on pedestal (119 x 76 cm,Synthetic Cubism,) exemplifies the broader influence of Cubism on European art —a movement that irrevocably altered artistic conventions.
Juan GrisSynthetic Cubism
1915Painting73 × 92 cmMuseo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Madrid
Gris, ever the analytical mind, approaches his subject matter with the precision of an engineer, yet imbues it with the lyrical grace one expects from a master painter. The composition immediately draws the eye to the central guitar, its curves and planes rendered through the rigorous lens of Synthetic Cubism.
Georges BraqueSynthetic Cubism
1921Oil on canvas131 × 74 cmMetropolitan Museum of Art, New York
This deceptively simple composition encapsulates Braque’s newfound focus on materiality and tonal harmony, offering a glimpse into his contemplative mood following the explosive breakthroughs of the movement. The painting resides within Braque's celebrated Mantelpieces series, which solidified his reputation as one of the foremost figures in Synthetic Cubism. “Guitar and Still Life on a Mantelpiece” exemplifies this shift beautifully.
1912Oil on canvas114 × 128 cmPhiladelphia Museum of Art
This work is a quintessential example of Cubism, a style that revolutionized modern art. Cubism, pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, fundamentally altered the visual landscape of early 20th-century art. The Salon de la Section d’Or, held in October 1912, served as a pivotal moment, exposing Cubist works to the discerning gaze of Parisian society.
1923Oil on canvas44 × 36 cmBrachot Gallery, Brussels
Magritte's approach aligns perfectly with the tenets of Cubism pioneered by Picasso and Braque—a movement that rejected single viewpoints in favor of presenting multiple perspectives simultaneously. The scene depicts Georgette Abramović, Magritte’s muse and wife, seated at a piano, alongside a vase containing lilies – symbols of purity and mourning – and scattered fruit.
1913Oil on canvas
In this 1913 oil on canvas, the rigid structures of Cubism soften into a rhythmic, pastoral scene. The composition is anchored by a musical instrument positioned in the lower left, suggesting a celebration of sound and motion. The painting bridges the gap between the analytical fragmentation of Cubism and the decorative elegance of Art Deco.
Oil
A man sits anchored at a table, his attention entirely consumed by the newspaper held in his hands. On the table, the mundane details of a life in motion rest in stillness: a cup, a bottle, and a spoon.
1912Oil on canvas135 × 82 cm
Picasso's use of geometric forms and overlapping planes creates a sense of depth and dimensionality, breaking down the subject into its essential components. The fragmented and deconstructed nature of "The aficionado (The torero)" symbolizes the breakdown of traditional perspectives and the exploration of multiple viewpoints.
Look forinterplay of text and abstract formsfragmented and abstracted view of a scenegeometric forms and overlapping planesmuted yet varied color palette with earthy tones
Marc ChagallExpressionist Cubism
Ink wash on paper23 × 18 cm
Chagall’s signature style—a potent blend of Cubism, Expressionism, and Symbolism —is evident in the simplified forms and distorted features. Chagall himself often spoke of his childhood memories in Vitebsk—the vibrant colors, the bustling marketplaces, and the deep-seated traditions of his Jewish community.
Look forstylized figures
1926Oil on canvas190 × 200 cmMuseu de Montserrat, Barcelona
The painting immediately strikes the viewer with its fragmented forms and geometric deconstruction. The figures, rather than being wholly dissolved into abstraction as in Analytical Cubism, retain enough recognizable form to suggest human presence, yet are fractured and reassembled with unsettling effect.
Look forthree figuresroom with objectsboat
1923Oil on canvasWinterbotham Collection
The painting immediately draws the eye with its stark geometric composition. This abstraction isn’t arbitrary; it reflects Magritte's fascination with deconstructing objects to reveal their underlying structure and challenging the viewer’s ability to easily recognize familiar subjects. Early influences included Impressionism and Cubism, but a pivotal moment arrived in 1916 when he encountered the work of Italian futurists like Gino Severini. “La duree poignadee,” as it was known at the time, exemplifies this approach, presenting a familiar scene (a train and a fireplace) in an arrangement that defies immediate comprehension. “Composition with Locomotive” remains one of Magritte’s most enduringly enigmatic works.
Look forgeometric abstraction
Drawing
To understand On the Boulevard is to understand the heartbeat of the Russian avant-garde. Created during a period when Malevich was experimenting with various European influences, the painting acts as a bridge between the representational traditions of the past and the pure abstraction of his later Suprematist period.
Paul CézanneCubism
1905Oil on canvasKunsthaus Buhler Stuttgart, Germany
Paul Cézanne, a pioneering French Post-Impressionist artist, played a crucial role in transitioning from 19th-century Impressionism to 20th-century Cubism. For instance, the Kunsthaus Buhler Stuttgart, Germany, established in 1905, boasts an impressive collection of both German and French art from the 19th century to the present day.
Pablo PicassoCubism
1905Gouache on paper57 × 41 cm
Created in 1905 during his formative years in Barcelona, this gouache on paper work—measuring 57 x 41 cm—immediately distinguishes itself from academic conventions through its bold color palette and fractured perspective, characteristics that would become hallmarks of Cubism.
Georges BraqueCubism
1930Painting
The emotional impact of “Dead Nature” is one of contemplative peace. Understanding “Dead Nature” requires acknowledging the historical weight Braque carried as a pioneer of the Cubist movement.
1913Oil on canvas (presumed)
This is not a static portrait of nature; it is a dynamic vision of movement, where every fragmented shape and bold stroke contributes to an atmosphere of frenzied energy and primal strength. Marc, a founding member of the Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider) movement, believed that colors possessed their own spiritual vibrations.
1912Oil on canvasGemeentemuseum, The Hague
Piet Mondrian, a foundational figure in modern abstract art, transformed from a figurative painter to a pioneer of pure abstraction. The transition from the first version of Still Life with Gingerpot to the second version showcases Mondrian’s thorough adoption of cubist principles, influenced by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque.
Georges BraqueAnalytical Cubism
1910Oil on canvas61 × 75 cm
At first glance, the composition presents a deceptively simple maritime scene: a fisherman’s boat laden with bottles, drifting through a sea of geometric abstraction. Rather than rendering the vessel and its cargo with smooth, illusionistic curves, Braque utilizes interlocking planes and fractured surfaces to reveal multiple viewpoints simultaneously. Braque’s palette in “Bottle and Fishes” is a masterclass in restraint and atmospheric depth.
1914Oil and pencil on canvasMoMA
At first glance, the viewer is met with a striking, minimalist expanse—a complex web of intersecting lines that seem to dance across the canvas with both mathematical rigor and a sense of organic chaos. To understand the emotional weight of Network of Stoppages, one must look to the historical crucible from which it emerged.
Fernand LégerCubism
1921Oil on canvas183.5 × 251.5 cmMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City
Instead, through Léger’s revolutionary lens, the act of sharing a morning meal is transformed into a complex dance of fragmented planes and interlocking shapes. The composition is a masterclass in what critics famously termed Tubism or Mechanical Cubism. The emotional impact of The Breakfast is driven largely by its bold and unapologetic color palette.
By movement
Cubism89 · 1903–1930
Synthetic Cubism4 · 1912–1921
Analytical Cubism2 · 1908–1910
Orphic Cubism3 · 1911–1913
Mechanistic Cubism1 · 1923–1923
Plan your visit
New York City leads with 11 of the 100; the MOMA - Museum of Modern Art alone holds 9.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Museum of Modern Art
Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam
Gemeentemuseum
The painters
1882–1963 · France · 12
French Cubist pioneer known for fragmented geometric forms and innovative papier collé textures.
4. Mandola, 9. Man with a Guitar, 10. Houses at L'estaque, 16. Violin and Palette, 24. Harbor in Normandy, 31. Woman Reading, 34. The Musician, 48. Houses at L’Estaque, 60. Woman with a Guitar, 79. Guitar and Still Life on a Mantelpiece, 95. Dead nature, 98. Bottle and Fishes
1881–1973 · Spain · 11
Spanish Cubist known for shattering perspective into geometric shapes and monochromatic blue tones.
2. The Three Musicians, 3. The Young Ladies of Avignon, 11. Portrait of Ambroise Vollard, 17. Two Women Running on the Beach (The Race), 25. Friendship, 29. The Old Guitarist, 39. Guitar Player, 43. Girl on the Ball, 64. Glass and Bottle of Suze, 88. The Aficionado (The Torero), 94. Boy with a Dog
1879–1935 · Ukraine · 9
Suprematist pioneer of non-objective geometry and radical, pure abstract forms.
12. An Englishman in Moscow, 26. Woman with Pails Dynamic Arrangement, 38. Composition with the Mona Lisa, 44. Knife Grinder - Principle of Flickering, 55. Taking in the Rye, 66. Encina y driadas, 71. Taking in the Harvest, 77. Musical Instrument, 92. On the Boulevard
1887–1985 · Belarus · 8
Russian-born modernist of dreamlike symbolism and vibrant, poetic colors and flying lovers.
1. I and the Village, 5. The Birthday, 37. The Praying Jew, 41. The Betrothed and Eiffel Tower, 52. The Feast of the Tabernacles, 58. The Promenade, 65. Paris Through the Window, 89. Lovers
1887–1968 · France · 8
French American Dadaist pioneer of readymades who challenged art through conceptual inquiry.
6. Nude Descending a Staircase, No.2, 27. The Passage from Virgin to Bride, 32. Portrait of Chess Players, 50. Sad young man in a train, 69. Disks Bearing Spirals, 75. Young Girl and Man in Spring, 80. King and Queen Surrounded by Swift Nudes, 99. Network of Stoppages
1881–1955 · France · 7
French Cubist known for Tubism and rhythmic, mechanical forms inspired by the machine age.
13. Three Women, 15. The City, 20. Nudes in the Forest, 23. The Mechanic, 49. The Wedding, 70. The Woman in Blue, 100. The Breakfast
1884–1920 · Italy · 6
Italian Expressionist known for soulful portraits with elongated faces and almond-shaped eyes.
7. Portrait of Jeanne Hebuterne, 28. Woman Seated by a Fireplace, 47. Head of Red-Haired Woman, 56. Young Man with Cap, 61. Portrait of Anna, 76. The Red-Headed Girl
Questions & answers
Hover over a question to read the answer.
Marc Chagall's I and the Village (1911, MOMA - Museum of Modern Art) is the most famous Cubism painting and No. 1 of this ranking, ahead of Pablo Picasso's The Three Musicians (1921, MOMA - Museum of Modern Art), Pablo Picasso's The Young Ladies of Avignon (1907, MOMA - Museum of Modern Art) and Georges Braque's Mandola (1910, Tate Gallery).
The 10 most famous Cubism paintings are I and the Village (Marc Chagall), The Three Musicians (Pablo Picasso), The Young Ladies of Avignon (Pablo Picasso), Mandola (Georges Braque), The Birthday (Marc Chagall), Nude Descending a Staircase, No.2 (Marcel Duchamp), Portrait of Jeanne Hebuterne (Amedeo Modigliani), The City of Paris (Robert Delaunay), Man with a Guitar (Georges Braque) and Houses at L'estaque (Georges Braque).
Georges Braque leads the ranking with 12 of the 100 paintings, including Mandola, Man with a Guitar and Houses at L'estaque.
The MOMA - Museum of Modern Art holds 9 of the 100, followed by the Metropolitan Museum of Art (3) and the Art Institute of Chicago (3). New York City is the city with the most: 11.
Most of them are in New York City (11), New York (5) and Paris (2). The museums with the most are the MOMA - Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Ranked by the number of their works among the 100 most famous Cubism paintings: Georges Braque (12), Pablo Picasso (11), Kazimir Malevich (9), Marc Chagall (8) and Marcel Duchamp (8).
Pablo Picasso's The Old Guitarist (1903–1904, Art Institute of Chicago), dated 1903. The most recent is Paul Klee's Street in the Camp (1930–1940), dated 1930.
Robert Delaunay's The City of Paris (1912, Centre Pompidou), 267 × 406 cm. The smallest is Marc Chagall's Lovers (n.d.), 23 × 18 cm.
82 of the 100 are oil paintings, 0 use tempera and 0 are frescoes; 0 are painted on wood and 73 on canvas.
50 of these 100 paintings are available hand-painted in oil, from $181, and 50 as a canvas print, from $47.
Each painting is ranked by how widely it is known: the number of Wikipedia language editions with an article on it (Wikidata sitelinks), its place in our catalogue's manual ranking and the visits its page receives. The same painting catalogued several times counts once, and details, copies and studies are left out.
Bring one home
50 paintings of this list can be ordered as museum-grade, hand-painted oil reproductions, from $181.
We started with every Cubism painting in our catalogue and ranked them by how famous they are. Three clues decide the order: in how many languages Wikipedia has an article about the painting, where our curators place it, and how often people open its page on our site. Each painting appears only once, and details, copies and studies are left out.
Famous Impressionism paintings
Water Lilies · Claude Monet
Famous Baroque paintings
Las Meninas · Diego Velázquez
Famous Romanticism paintings
Liberty Leading the People · Eugène Delacroix
Famous Realism paintings
Nighthawks · Edward Hopper
Famous Post-Impressionism paintings
Starry Night · Vincent van Gogh
Famous Expressionism paintings
The Scream · Edvard Munch
Famous Surrealism paintings
The Persistence of Memory · Salvador Dalí
Famous Neoclassicism paintings
Napoleon at the St. Bernard Pass · Jacques-Louis David
Famous Renaissance paintings
Mona Lisa · Leonardo da Vinci
Famous Symbolism paintings
The Birth of Venus · William-Adolphe Bouguereau
Famous Mannerism paintings
Burial of the Count of Orgaz · El Greco
Famous Rococo paintings
The Swing · Jean-Honoré Fragonard
500–1000
Famous Early Medieval paintings
The Night Revels of Han Xizai · Gu Hongzhong
1000–1300
Famous High Medieval paintings
Crucifix · Cimabue
1300–1400
Famous Late Medieval paintings
Our Lady of the Don · Theophanes the Greek
1400–1600
Famous Renaissance paintings
Mona Lisa · Leonardo da Vinci
1600–1800
Famous Early Modern paintings
The Girl with a Pearl Earring · Johannes Vermeer
1800–1900
Famous 19th Century paintings
Starry Night · Vincent van Gogh
1900–1980
Famous Modern paintings
Guernica · Pablo Picasso
1980–
Famous Contemporary paintings
Girl with Balloon · Banksy
