This watercolor is from a group of at least seven that Diego Rivera made on the subject of stonemasons in 1935. Although the renowned Social Realist painter is best known for his ambitious and elaborate murals that openly tackle political and economic themes, he also frequently represented everyday life in Mexico. Like the other works in the series—which include laborers heaving heavy stones on their backs using ropes or breaking them with hammers—this watercolor shows one stage in the construction of a building.

Label from Overtime: The Art of Work, March 8–May 17, 2015