Christmas Eve

Oil on canvas painting of a winter outdoor street scene. Several figures dressed in winter clothing walk along a busy street, including men, women, and a small boy pulling a sled behind him. Some appear to be holding festively wrapped packages, and one is carrying a tree. In the middle ground stands a man dressed as Santa Claus ringing a handheld bell high in the air. In the background, a lit Christmas tree topped with a glowing star has attracted several onlookers. Other background figures appear to be removing trees from a shop with a sign marked “CHRISTMAS TREES.” In the windows of various background buildings can be seen wreaths, a Christmas tree decorated with colored lights, and a glowing cross. A starry sky is visible behind the center building. Vibrant electric blue is the painting’s dominant shade. Motley’s signature appears in red in the lower right-hand corner.