The artwork, titled “Great Five Mile Rowing Match,” was created by Currier and Ives in 1867. It belongs to the Romanticism art movement and is categorized as a genre painting.
The artwork depicts a competitive rowing scene with two rowers in the foreground, each positioned on a sleek rowing boat. They appear vigorous and focused, engaged in a strenuous and thrilling rowing race. The background showcases a serene waterway bustling with various sailing vessels and steamships, with distant, rolling hills under a soft, light-filled sky. The composition captures the dynamic essence of the race while highlighting details of the landscape and elements of nautical life, reflecting the romantic fascination with nature and human achievement. The text on the artwork informs viewers of the event: a rowing match for a $400 prize and the championship of America.