La Liberte Des Mers (Vallier 143), 1959

Georges Braque (b. 1882 France, d. 1963 France) was a French painter, collagist, and sculptor who, alongside Pablo Picasso, is credited with developing Cubism, one of the most influential art movements of the 20th century. Braque's early work was influenced by Fauvism, characterized by vibrant colors and bold brushwork. However, his collaboration with Picasso around 1907 marked a significant shift in his style, leading to the development of Analytical Cubism, which deconstructed objects into geometric shapes and depicted multiple perspectives within a single plane. Later, he transitioned to Synthetic Cubism, incorporating elements such as stenciled text and collage into his paintings. Braque's work is known for its subtle use of color, intricate compositions, and a focus on everyday objects, often emphasizing the tactile qualities of surfaces. His exploration of form and space had a profound impact on the trajectory of modern art, and his works are held in major museums worldwide, including the Louvre in Paris and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.