Artwork

The Up-Tide on the Avenue

The Up-Tide on the Avenue, by Childe Hassam, 1890
The Up-Tide on the Avenue, by Childe Hassam, 1890

The Up-Tide on the Avenue is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Childe Hassam. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Up-Tide on the Avenue, a drawing by Childe Hassam circa 1890, employs black and gray wash with white heightening to depict a mundane urban scene, characteristic of Hassam's Impressionist focus on everyday life and atmospheric conditions.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows a horse-drawn wagon navigating a muddy city street lined with dark, imposing buildings and puddled rainwater, emphasizing the gritty reality of urban life on a rainy day.

Technique & Style

Hassam utilized a predominantly black, gray, and white palette to create a somber, rainy atmosphere. The watery quality of the wash, akin to ink, contrasts with strategic white highlights, underscoring his Impressionist approach to capturing light and mood.

History & Provenance

Created around 1890, this work is part of Childe Hassam's extensive oeuvre of over 3,000 pieces across mediums, highlighting his role as a pivotal figure in introducing Impressionism to America.

Context

This piece aligns with Hassam's broader interest in urban and coastal scenes, reflecting the Impressionist movement's emphasis on modern life and natural light, akin to the works of his contemporaries like Mary Cassatt.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of 'The Up-Tide on the Avenue' are not provided, as part of Hassam's body of work, it contributes to the broader legacy of American Impressionism, influencing subsequent generations of artists in capturing everyday American life.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Childe Hassam

Artist

Childe Hassam

Frederick Childe Hassam was an American Impressionist painter, noted for his urban and coastal scenes.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.