Mid-Century Sepia Urban Street Scene by David, Signed & Numbered 23/600, c. 1950s–1960s
Viridian Eclection
The Piece Urban Street Scene, signed David [surname unclear], limited edition 23/600, c. 1950s–1960s A mid-20th-century urban streetscape rendered in a restrained sepia palette, depicting a city i...
The Piece
Urban Street Scene, signed David [surname unclear], limited edition 23/600, c. 1950s–1960s
A mid-20th-century urban streetscape rendered in a restrained sepia palette, depicting a city intersection with period automobiles, pedestrians, and early commercial architecture. Executed in watercolor or ink-and-wash on textured paper, the composition prioritizes architectural massing, perspective, and atmosphere over fine detail.
The work is signed “David” lower left and numbered 23/600 lower right, indicating a limited edition production consistent with postwar architectural and commercial illustration practices. The artist’s approach reflects formal training in draftsmanship and urban rendering, situating the work between fine art and professional illustration.
Presented in a period wood frame with a warm, patinated finish that complements the tonal restraint of the image.
Historical Context
During the 1950s and 1960s, artists trained in architecture, drafting, and illustration frequently produced limited edition city views documenting American urban environments. These works were popular in offices, libraries, and private homes, valued for their clarity, compositional discipline, and documentary character.
Rather than expressive color or abstraction, these artists favored tonal harmony and spatial accuracy—capturing cities as lived environments during a period of rapid postwar change.
This piece belongs firmly within that tradition.
Details
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Artist: David (surname illegible)
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Date: Circa 1950s–1960s
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Medium: Watercolor or ink-and-wash on paper
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Palette: Sepia / neutral tones
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Signature: Present, lower left (“David”)
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Edition: Numbered 23/600
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Frame: Period wood frame with patinated finish
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Subject: Urban street and architectural scene
Condition
Good vintage condition.
The paper shows light, even toning consistent with age. No visible tears, losses, or water damage. The frame shows minor wear consistent with age and handling. Glass intact.
Why It Belongs in Your Home
This work is about structure and calm.
Its neutral palette and architectural subject allow it to integrate seamlessly into a wide range of interiors—from historic spaces to modern rooms that benefit from visual grounding. It works especially well in studies, offices, hallways, and gallery walls where mood and rhythm matter more than color saturation.
It is a piece meant to be lived with, not glanced at once.
Every piece is packed with professional-grade materials: multiple foam layers, double-boxing, directional and fragile handling labels. For large furniture we use custom timber crating. We photograph packing before dispatch and can provide images on request.
White-glove delivery is complimentary within 100 miles of Reno, NV. National shipping quotes provided at checkout. All shipments are photographed and documented. Damage claims must be filed with the carrier; we provide all documentation needed to support your claim.
Local pickup is available at Viridian HQ (Reno, NV) with 2–4 days notice. Contact us to arrange. Private viewings also available.
All antique and vintage items are sold as described and all sales are final. Each listing includes detailed condition notes and photographs so you can make a fully informed decision. We encourage buyers to ask questions — about condition, dimensions, finish, provenance — before purchasing.
Antiques are irreplaceable and one-of-a-kind. Carrier handling is outside our control once a piece has left our facility, and major carriers including FedEx do not insure antiques. We do everything within our power to ensure safe transit, but cannot accept liability for carrier damage. If damage occurs in transit, we will provide full documentation to support your carrier claim.
Have a question? — we're happy to provide additional photos, condition detail, or discuss the piece directly.
