“El Palacio,” by Edward Hopper, is a fine example of New Realism, executed in oil on canvas in the year 1946. The artwork, measuring 20 3/4 by 28 5/8 inches, is a cityscape genre painting that can be viewed at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York. This work is a testament to Hopper’s keen observation and skillful representation of urban spaces.
The artwork depicts an urban scene with a subdued color palette, typical of Hopper’s style. Strong geometric shapes define the architecture, and there’s a prominent use of light and shadow that adds depth to the buildings. In the foreground, a rooftop adorned with a sign that reads “PALACIO” captures the viewer’s attention, with its elongated letters standing out in a sharp contrast to the surrounding natural and architectural forms. The building facades exhibit muted tones, interspersed with highlights that give a sense of the environment and time of day. In the distance, one can observe mountains, with their silhouettes contributing to the layered composition, giving a sense of expansiveness beyond the immediate cityscape. The sky is streaked with soft cloud formations, enhancing the overall tranquil and isolated mood that is often associated with Hopper’s works.
