#44664 Aurelio Arteta (1879-1940)

The canvas presents a bustling urban scene, likely depicting a Parisian street at the turn of the twentieth century. Here we see a crowded thoroughfare dominated by vehicles and pedestrians, all rendered in a style characterized by simplified forms and a muted color palette. The composition is structured around a central perspective line that draws the eye towards the background, where buildings rise on either side of the road.
The artist employed a limited range of colors – ochres, yellows, greens, and blues – to create an atmosphere of hazy light and slightly melancholic mood. Brushstrokes are visible throughout, contributing to a sense of immediacy and movement. The application of paint is not smooth; instead, it appears somewhat textured, which adds depth and visual interest.
In the foreground, three women stand out. One, dressed in a vibrant blue dress, occupies a central position, her posture suggesting both determination and perhaps a touch of anxiety. Flanking her are two other figures, clad in green and brown respectively. A young girl stands slightly apart from them, holding what appears to be a piece of paper or a small object. Their proximity suggests a familial or social connection, but their expressions remain ambiguous.
The vehicles – a tram, automobiles, and bicycles – are depicted with an emphasis on their mechanical forms rather than detailed representation. They contribute significantly to the sense of urban dynamism and the rapid pace of modern life. The figures populating the street are similarly simplified, appearing as anonymous participants in a larger social flow.
Beyond the immediate depiction of a city scene, the painting seems to explore themes of modernity, urbanization, and perhaps even alienation. The muted colors and somewhat detached perspective create a sense of distance between the viewer and the subjects, hinting at the impersonal nature of urban existence. The women in the foreground, while seemingly ordinary, become symbolic figures representing individuals navigating this rapidly changing world. Their expressions, though subtle, invite contemplation about their experiences within this environment.

The signature appears to be located in the lower left corner.