The artwork, titled “Black Belt,” was crafted by artist Archibald Motley in the year 1934. Executed in oil on canvas, it measures 33 by 40.25 centimeters. This piece is representative of the Art Deco movement and belongs to the genre painting category.
“Black Belt” vividly captures a dynamic urban nightlife scene characterized by a bustling crowd engaged in various activities. The street, illuminated under a twilight sky, is flanked by buildings signposted with neon lights advertising establishments such as “DRUGS,” “CIGARS & CIGARETTES,” and the “DROP INN.” The composition’s vibrant color palette and dramatic lighting convey a sense of energy and movement, reflecting the cultural vibrancy of the period. Prominent figures in fashionable attire populate the foreground, engaging in conversation and nightlife activities, while the background reveals further elements of the busy cityscape, including a taxi and groups of people socializing and moving through the city streets. The artwork effectively encapsulates the essence of a moment in time within an urban setting, highlighting social interaction and the thriving life of the city during the Art Deco era.
