Christmas Print 

Francis Chapin made this print, titled "Christmas Print," using lithography sometime in the mid-20th century. Chapin was part of the Chicago art scene in the 1930s and 40s. The scene shows a snowy urban street at night. The houses and shops are lit up, and people are out and about. Two children can be seen in a window. The image evokes a sense of community and holiday cheer, but the black and white medium and the starkness of the scene also suggest a certain melancholy. Chicago, during Chapin's time, was a major industrial center with a diverse population. Its art scene was known for its social realism, which reflected the lives of ordinary people. In this context, Chapin's print can be seen as a commentary on the social and economic realities of urban life, as well as the importance of community and family during the holidays. Art historians could consult census data, newspapers, and other primary sources to learn more about the social and economic conditions of Chicago during the time. Studying these resources will allow one to better understand Chapin’s place in the cultural landscape.