A painter who specialized in views of Paris, Georges Stein was an artist who transcribed perfectly the ambiance, elegance and gaiety of the Belle Epoque. In his many works in oil and watercolor, Stein represented views emblematic of the French capital: the Champs-Elysees, Ile de la Cité, and all of the grand boulevards. These he peopled with elegant carriages, well-turned-out young women, chevaliers in uniform, bicyclists, and other Belle Epoque types. His works serve as a visual record of the costume, manners and public leisure of Paris. Stein exhibited his works at the Paris Salon on the Champs-Elysees.

The present works depicts the rainwashed Place de la Concorde from the sculptures of the Cheval de Marly, on either side of the wide Avenue, to the Arc de Triomphe in the distance. A soldier in full uniform and gleaming helmet rides among carriages and well-dressed figures out for a stroll in the evening air. Stein’s lively and quick brushwork lends itself perfectly to the bustling view.