Wet Night, Columbus Circle, New York

1899

William A. Fraser

Associated Names
William A. Fraser

Artist, American, c. 1840 - 1925

The artwork depicts a scene of Columbus Circle in New York at night. The point of view is from a path lined with bare trees, leading the eye towards the distant structures. The horizon is obscured by a misty ambiance, with faint outlines of buildings and lights shimmering through the fog. The wet pavement reflects the dim streetlights, adding a sense of depth and texture to the scene. The color palette is monochromatic, dominated by shades of gray and black. The style has a soft, blurred effect.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    photogravure on chine collé mounted on cream wove paper

  • Credit Line

    Anonymous Gift

  • Dimensions

    image: 16.3 x 12.2 cm (6 7/16 x 4 13/16 in.)
    sheet: 18.4 x 13.5 cm (7 1/4 x 5 5/16 in.)
    mount: 37.9 x 27.8 cm (14 15/16 x 10 15/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2002.120.23

  • Series Title

    American Pictorial Photography, Series I

Associated Artworks

See all 18 artworks
The artwork features a sepia-toned photograph of a person shown from the waist up. The individual is positioned facing forward, gazing directly at the viewer. They have short, wavy hair and a neutral expression. The person is partially clothed, with an open garment draped over their shoulders, exposing their chest. They hold a spherical object in one hand, positioned at shoulder height. In the background, there are blurred floral elements. The photograph is positioned within an arched frame set against a plain, textured surface.

Beauty is Truth--Truth Beauty

F. Holland Day

1899

American Pictorial Photography, Series I

Various Artists

1899

The image shows a canal lined with buildings on both sides. A stone bridge spans the canal in the distance. There is mist in the air, creating a soft atmosphere. Gondolas are moored near the canal's edge, with their reflections visible in the water. The buildings in the background have intricate facades. The image is in a monochromatic palette of grays, blacks, and whites.

Reflections--Venice

Alfred Stieglitz

1899

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Private collection; gift to NGA, 2002.

Associated Names

Wikidata ID

Q64169850