Relics (Speakeasy Corner)

Relics (Speakeasy Corner). 1928. Drypoint. McCarron 74. 11 7/8 x 9 7/8 (sheet 17 1/8 x 13 3/4). Edition of 111. Illustrated: American Etchers: Martin Lewis. A brilliant, luminous impression with rich, velvety burr, printed on cream laid paper. Signed in pencil. Housed in an archival mat and a 25 x 21-inch black wood frame. 

According to McCarron, page 136, "The popularity of Relics when first issued is clear; the entire edition sold in just a few months, a spectacular achievement for a printmaker of the time...."
The location is the intersection of Charles Street and West Fourth Street in Greenwich Village, a few blocks from Lewis's house on Bedford Street...."
During Lewis's lifetime, Relics was his most popular print, and the entire edition was sold. Relics and Glow of the City are considered to be Lewis's most iconic image.

Additional works by Martin Lewis are available on the Allinson Gallery, Inc. website.