Georges Braque Grand Oiseau Gris (Big Gray Bird), c. 1956 is a wonderful image of a bird in flight, a theme which preoccupied the artist for many years. In the center of the image is a grey bird flying with its wings outstretched. The bird looks steadfastly forward, as if focused on its journey ahead. The wings and neck of the bird are embellished with light beige and brown triangular patterns. Behind the bird, various shades of blue create a subdued background. Viewers can easily imagine seeing such a bird in flight against a clear, blue sky. The size of the work further emphasizes the drama of this giant bird in flight. Compositionally, the thick brushes of color produce a painterly effect, something Braque deliberately sought in his lithographs. Furthermore, the varied shading and texture produces a rich visual experience. The bird appears flattened into geometric shapes, drawing a connection to Braque’s earlier forays into cubism.

Created circa 1956 after an original painting, this color lithograph is is hand-signed by Georges Braque (Argenteuil-sur-Seine, 1882- Paris, 1963) in pencil in the lower right margin; numbered from the edition 95 in pencil in the lower right margin; published by Maeght Éditeur, Paris.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Geroges Braque Big Gray Bird (Grand Oiseau Gris), c.1956 is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the final sale of the work).

1. Vallier, Dora. Braque: The Complete Graphics. Translated by Robert Bononno and Pamela Barr. New York: Gallery Books, 1982. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 1008.

2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this color etching and aquatint.

About the Framing:
Georges Braque Big Gray Bird (Grand Oiseau Gris), c.1956 is framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, presented in a complimentary moulding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical grade Plexiglas.