Bicycle Road Maps

The artwork "Bicycle Road Maps" by Edward Penfield presents a striking combination of design and illustration rooted in the Art Nouveau style, characterizing the late 19th and early 20th century. The painting features two main elements: a detailed bicycle road map on the left and a lively illustration of three cyclists on the right.The map part of the painting shows a section of detailed topography along a river, which is likely the Hudson River given the labeling. Noteworthy places like Yonkers and points of interests along the river are marked, possibly suggesting popular bicycle routes of that era. The map is drawn with attention to detail, showing numerous roads and geographical features.On the right, there's a lively illustrated panel featuring three figures dressed in the fashion of the early 1900s, riding bicycles. The two women and one man are depicted in a relaxed, conversational pose, suggesting the social and leisurely aspects of cycling. The man is in the center on a bicycle, flanked by the women who are dressed in vibrant attire including red and polka-dotted garments, which provide a sharp contrast to the more muted colors used in the man's clothing. The woman on the right also sports a red feather in her hat, adding to the overall chic appearance.The juxtaposition of a practical road map with the leisurely image of cyclists visually represents the blend of utility and pleasure that bicycling afforded at the time.