Venus of 23rd Street c. 1936

"Venus of 23rd Street" (c. 1936) is a black and white woodcut by American artist Joseph Solman (1909-2008). The print depicts an urban scene in a simplified and geometric style, characteristic of the artist's work. A female figure is prominently displayed on a billboard, referencing the suggestive and commercialized nature of urban environments. The bold lines and stark contrasts of the woodcut highlight the structural elements of the cityscape. The image offers a glimpse into Solman's artistic approach to depicting the bustling and often-overlooked realities of city life. This woodcut, part of a numbered edition of 50, is a prime example of Solman's signature style, characterized by its starkness, graphic quality, and social commentary.