The artwork, titled “Ships and Sailboats on the Delaware,” was created by Thomas Eakins in 1874. It belongs to the Realism movement and falls within the landscape genre. This piece captures a serene scene on the Delaware River, characterized by an array of ships and sailboats scattered across the calm waters.
In the artwork, the tranquil river is dotted with various vessels, including majestic ships with tall masts and smaller sailboats with numerous sails unfurled. The expanse of water spans the lower portion of the composition, reflecting the boats and sky, which dominate the top half with its soft, subtle hues. Two figures in a small rowboat appear in the foreground, adding a sense of scale and human presence to the peaceful maritime setting. The use of light and shadow, combined with a muted color palette, contributes to the calm and contemplative atmosphere that is emblematic of the Realism movement.
