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With the naked eye

Phil May

1902

watercolor

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Post-Impressionism Early Modern

Dominant colour

With the naked eye is a 1902 watercolor by Phil May, a Post-Impressionism work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: Phil May
When & what style?: 1902 · Post-Impressionism
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This watercolour painting depicts two men standing on a street corner, engaged in conversation. The man on the left is dressed in a checkered jacket, a red vest, and a hat, while the man on the right wears a dark suit and a cap. In the background, another man can be seen walking away from the pair. The scene appears to be set in a bustling city, with the two men standing out against the more subdued tones of the background. The artist's use of colour and composition draws the viewer's attention to the interaction between the two men. The painting invites the viewer to ponder the conversation between the two men. To learn more about the artist's techniques, explore the world of chiaroscuro.

About the artist

Artist

Phil May

Phil May sketched everyday life in ink and watercolor, often catching people in motion—like the riders on *The Omnibus Boat on a calm day* or the quiet scene in *With the naked eye*.

See the richer artist page