Riders on the Metro c. 1890

"Riders on the Metro" is a charcoal drawing by Théophile Steinlen, a renowned French artist. The sketch captures the fleeting moments of everyday life in the late 19th century, showcasing the anonymous faces of passengers on a crowded metro. The artist's loose, expressive lines and emphasis on the human figure evoke a sense of immediacy and the bustle of urban life. Steinlen's work is characterized by its social commentary and depiction of the working class, making "Riders on the Metro" a poignant glimpse into the lives of Parisians during a time of rapid modernization.