Eros

This signed 1936 watercolor by an unidentified artist presents a look at the life of an urban bohemian artist in Greenwich Village, New York. Mixing the malaise and grit of Great Depression-era NY with romantic nostalgia for the artist's communities that flourished during the Ashcan school-period of the early 20th century, this scene presents a view of an artist attempting to find inspiration at the sight of his muse, a sensuously posed nude model, but sinking into debauchery as he cradles a drink in one hand with a tawdry book titled Eros laying on his table. On his wall, unseen by either the artist or model, are his previous creations, including a likeness of the napping dog at his feet. This is an inspired work of urban realism, that dates to the WPA period where unflinching looks at the hidden corners of life were becoming an increasingly popular subject matter for American artists.

The watercolor is artist signed but we have been unable to make out the signature. The date after the signature reads clearly; 1936. The watercolor painting, in its original frame, has an old verso label from The Gallery of Graphic Arts in New York City, where this work was previously displayed and sold.