Synthetic vs. Analytic Cubism

Pablo Picasso Portrait of Daniel-Henry Kahnweiler, 1910

Martel Chapman Epistrophy

Analytic Cubism is the first form of Cubism developed by Picasso and Braque, and is so named because the artist breaks down and analyzes his or her subject matter. This form renders three-dimensional objects as two-dimensional objects, using flat, geometric shapes called facets. These facets represent the multitude of planes making up the three-dimensional object, as seen from all viewpoints.

Diego Rivera Zapatista Landscape, 1915

Synthetic Cubism is the opposite of Analytic Cubism, in that it requires various source material to synthesize, or build up, the image. Abstract parts, comprising of different textures, surfaces, and collage elements, are brought together to express the spirit of the object. Synthetic Cubism is also different from Analytic Cubism because it tends to be flatter, more colorful, and uses less facets to depict its subject matter.