Martin Lewis, N.A. 1881-1962.
Relics (Speakeasy CORNER). 1928. Drypoint. McCarron 74. 11 7/8 x 9 7/8. Edition of 100 (111 were printed). A rich impression printed on cream laid paper. Signed in pencil. Housed in a dramatic 21 x 24-inch black wood picture frame. Price upon application.
According to McCarron, the location of this scene is at the intersection of Charles Street and West Fourth Street in Greenwich Village. The speakeasy alluded to in Lewis' title was located on the ground floor of the building across the street, in the upper left, a space that was later occupied by Camilla's Village Garden restaurant. Kennedy Galleries, the artist's New York representative for most of his career, changed Lewis' title to Relics, possibly in an attempt to tone down the subject.
Lewis' use of shadow and light to create mood, life and movement is most powerful in his New York prints. Relics is his most celebrated etching, incorporating all of the aspects that make his prints such cherished glimpses into New York's bustling yester-year, while simultaneously capturing the timelessness of city life. This was one of Lewis' most popular prints during his lifetime, selling out the entire intended edition of 100 soon after its completion. It remains one of his most sought after prints today.
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