The artwork, “Columbus Avenue Rainy Day,” was created by Childe Hassam in the year 1885. It is representative of the Impressionism art movement and falls under the cityscape genre. The painting captures a rainy day scene on Columbus Avenue, characterized by its impressionistic portrayal of urban life.
The artwork depicts a damp, wet urban environment where the rain has left the streets glistening. A horse-drawn carriage is prominently featured in the middle distance, accentuating the main avenue. The surrounding architecture, enveloped in a misty atmosphere, provides a backdrop that merges with the overcast sky. Pedestrians with umbrellas are seen walking along the sidewalks, adding life and movement to the composition. The artist employs soft brushstrokes and muted colors, effectively evoking the mood of a rainy day in the city. The reflection of the city lights and the blurred outlines contribute to the overall impressionistic quality of the piece. Through these elements, Hassam beautifully captures the transient and atmospheric effect of rain in an urban setting.
