“Speeding on the Avenue” is an artwork crafted in 1870 by the renowned artist partnership, Currier and Ives. This piece, part of the Romanticism movement and the genre painting classification, belongs to the “Horse Racing” series. The artwork vividly captures a dynamic scene of horse-drawn carriages in motion, emphasizing the spirit and excitement of the race.
In the foreground, numerous carriages, each pulled by a single horse, race against one another on a broad avenue. The horses, depicted in varied shades, are galloping at full speed, with their drivers keenly focused on the race. The drivers, adorned in different attires, reflect the period’s fashion. The background features a serene, expansive landscape with gentle hills and sparse buildings, providing a contrasting calmness to the bustling activity on the avenue. The overall composition exudes energy and movement, showcasing the elegance and vigor inherent in the sport of horse racing during the era.