Margaret Smith “Near the Zócalo” Abstract Impressionist Cityscape Oil Painting

A large and luminous late 1970s/early 1980s abstract impressionist cityscape oil painting on board by American artist Margaret Smith, signed and titled “Near the Zócalo”.

The Zócalo is the common name of the main square in Mexico City—known formally as Plaza de la Constitución—which prior to the colonial period was the ceremonial center of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. The square and surrounding streets have played a pivotal role in the city's planning and geography for almost 700 years, and it's just a block away from the Templo Mayor, which according to Aztec legend and mythology was considered the center of the universe.

This sweeping view of the area is skillfully rendered in subtly complex golden tones and palette knife-applied textures that suggest a sunny and vibrant sense of place. Displays a very mid-century modern aesthetic, with proportions that lend itself to placement above a sofa or console table where it would brighten any room.

Signed on the front at right, and signed and titled on the back. In beveled ecru painted mat with dark warm grey painted frame.

Sight is H 17.75 in. x W 47.5 in.; overall dimensions are H 21.5 in. x W 51.13 in. x D 1.5 in.. Art is in great vintage condition. Mat has some tiny marks and faint smudges. Frame has some tiny nicks and superficial marks/scuffs to paint.