Large Boston Public Garden Sketchbook: The Huntington Avenue Streetcar

Maurice, 1895

MEDIUMWatercolor over pencil
DIMENSIONS14 1/8 x 11 3/16 in. (35.8 x 28.4 cm)
LOCATIONThe Metropolitan Museum of Art
COLLECTIONRobert Lehman Collection
CREDIT LINERobert Lehman Collection, 1975

This watercolor sketch captures a dynamic streetcar scene on Boston's Huntington Avenue in 1895, offering a spontaneous glimpse into urban life and the era's evolving transportation.

Get the full experience in Art Whisper
Get it on Google Play Download on the App Store
ABOUT THIS WORK

In this watercolor sketch, a streetcar glides along Huntington Avenue in Boston, its dark form a stark contrast against the lighter, more fluid background. The artist captures a fleeting moment of urban life, with the streetcar's windows reflecting hints of the world outside, and a lone figure, possibly a woman, visible inside. The quick, uninhibited brushstrokes of watercolor over pencil give the scene an immediate, almost spontaneous feel, characteristic of a rapid outdoor study. This work offers a glimpse into Boston at the close of the 19th century, a time when electric streetcars were transforming cityscapes and daily commutes. It’s a study in motion and observation, focusing on how light and atmosphere interact with modern transportation.

LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

1

Observe the loose, rapid watercolor strokes that define the streetcar's shape.

2

Notice the subtle reflections in the streetcar windows, suggesting movement and light.

3

Look for the faint pencil lines beneath the watercolor, revealing the initial sketch.

2 more details waiting — unlock in Art Whisper
Audio Deep Dive

This watercolor sketch captures a dynamic streetcar scene on Boston's Huntington Avenue in 1895, offering a spontaneous glimpse into urban life and the era's e…

Hear the full story in the app
THE ARTIST
Maurice

The artist behind vibrant Fauvist street scenes and colorful depictions of Paris and French villages.

Read Maurice's full story in Art Whisper
See something wrong?
Open the App