Lily Furedi's 1934 Painting 'Subway' Captures New Deal Era Commute

Lily Furedi painted 'Subway' in 1934 as an oil on canvas measuring 123 by 99 centimeters, commissioned under the Public Works of Art Project during the Great Depression. The artwork depicts a New York City subway car interior from a seated passenger's perspective, showcasing riders on a morning commute. It portrays social dynamics, such as a man in a purple suit reading a newspaper and a woman secretly glancing at it, while two women converse animatedly in the foreground. A violinist in evening attire sleeps, possibly returning from a night shift, and a couple nearly kisses in the background. The painting reflects the new Independent Subway System (ISS), which opened in 1932, featuring clean, spacious interiors with yellow wicker seats, red rubber flooring, and olive walls. Furedi's father, Samuel Furedi, was a cellist, possibly influencing her depiction of the musician. The work is held at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, DC, and represents New Deal-era optimism and women's creativity.