“The Ending of the War, Starting Home” is an oil painting created by American artist Horace Pippin between 1930 and 1933. This artwork, belonging to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement, is categorized as genre painting. It measures 81.3 x 100.3 centimeters and is currently housed at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States.
The artwork depicts a dramatic and chaotic scene from World War I. Soldiers are engaged in combat amidst the backdrop of a dark, foreboding forest. The sky above is tumultuous, littered with explosions and descending debris, symbolizing the harrowing experiences of war. The painting’s frame is also adorned with military items such as helmets, grenades, and other relevant artifacts, incorporating a physical element to the piece and enhancing its narrative impact. The palette primarily consists of somber colors, underscoring the grim reality and aftermath of war. The soldiers are portrayed in a simple, raw manner, characteristic of the Naïve Art style, evoking a poignant sense of struggle and resilience.
