This print shows a fragmented, crowded vision of Parisian nightlife. The Rue de la Gaité in Montparnasse, where this scene is set, was home to many of the great music-hall theatres. The area became known during the 1920s and ‘30s as the heart of intellectual society and artistic creativity in Paris. Although Nevinson declared his separation from Futurism after the end of the First World War, characteristics of this pan-European artistic movement are still present in this work. These include the angular, grimacing figures seated on a terrace with the bright lights and garish signs of the modern city in the lively street behind.

Edition of 75. Probably exhibited with the painting on which it is based in Nevinson's eight Leicester Galleries show, October 1930, No. 33 as 'Parnasse'.

Inscriptions / Translations:  Signed on plate, br (pencil/ink) 'C.R.W. Nevinson'.