Winslow Homer (1836-1910) was an American artist best known for his landscape paintings and seascapes. He began his career as a commercial illustrator before transitioning to fine art and gaining recognition for his realistic portrayals of rural life and the sea. Homer's bold use of color and expert understanding of light and shadow set him apart as a leading figure in American art during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth and technical mastery.
1. The Turtle Pound
- Artwork Name: The Turtle Pound
- Year: 1898
- Medium: Watercolor Over Graphite
- Dimensions: 14 15/16 x 21 3/8 in. (38 x 54.3 cm)
"The Turtle Pound" by Winslow Homer, created in 1898, is a watercolor over graphite artwork measuring 14 15/16 x 21 3/8 inches (38 x 54.3 cm). The piece is housed in the Brooklyn Museum, New York. The artwork portrays a vibrant scene set against a maritime backdrop, featuring two shirtless men engaged in capturing a turtle near the edge of a watery enclosure. The meticulous use of watercolor creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, illustrating Homer’s proficiency in capturing the nuances of natural light and human activity.
2. Sponge Fishing, Nassau
- Artwork Name: Sponge Fishing, Nassau
- Year: 1885
- Medium: Watercolor And Graphite
- Dimensions: 10 1/2 x 19 1/2 in. (26.7 x 49.5 cm)
"Sponge Fishing, Nassau," crafted by Winslow Homer in 1885, is a watercolor and graphite artwork with dimensions of 10 1/2 by 19 1/2 inches (26.7 by 49.5 cm). The piece is part of a private collection. The artwork captures a serene coastal scene in Nassau, depicting local sponge fishermen engaged in their daily activities. Conveying a sense of tranquility and community, palm trees and rustic buildings outline the shore with azure waters and a placid sky in the backdrop, highlighting the harmony between the inhabitants and their environment.
3. Canoe In The Rapids
- Artwork Name: Canoe In The Rapids
- Year: 1897
- Medium: Watercolor Over Graphite
- Dimensions: 13 5/8 x 20 1/2 in. (34.6 x 52.1 cm)
The artwork titled "Canoe In The Rapids" is a distinguished piece by Winslow Homer, created in 1897. Executed in watercolor over graphite, this painting measures 13 5/8 by 20 1/2 inches (34.6 by 52.1 cm) and is housed in the Fogg Art Museum at Harvard University. The artwork depicts two individuals navigating a canoe through turbulent waters under a dramatic sky, flanked by dark, densely forested shores. The composition captures the intensity and adventure of traversing the rapids, showcasing Homer's mastery in both technique and expression.
4. A Wall, Nassau
- Artwork Name: A Wall, Nassau
- Year: 1898
- Medium: Watercolor
- Dimensions: 14 3/4 x 21 1/4 in. (37.5 x 54 cm)
"A Wall, Nassau," a watercolor painting created in 1898 by Winslow Homer, is housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Measuring 14 3/4 by 21 1/4 inches (37.5 by 54 cm), the artwork depicts a serene scene, showcasing a simple white wall with a small open gate beside a splash of vibrant red flowers, set against the backdrop of a calm sea and a clear sky. The juxtaposition of the vivid flowers and the tranquil environment effectively captures the essence of Nassau in a delicate and evocative manner.
5. Street Corner, Santiago De Cuba
- Artwork Name: Street Corner, Santiago De Cuba
- Year: 1885
- Medium: Watercolor
- Dimensions: 14 x 20 in (35.6 x 50.8 cm)
The artwork titled "Street Corner, Santiago De Cuba," created by Winslow Homer in 1885, is a watercolor painting measuring 14 by 20 inches (35.6 by 50.8 cm). This piece is part of the collection at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. The artwork depicts a street scene with a prominent building corner characterized by weathered textures and vibrant colors, evoking a distinct sense of place and time. The interplay of light and shadow, along with the detailed portrayal of architectural elements, highlights Homer's mastery in capturing the essence of urban life in Santiago de Cuba.
6. Right And Left
- Artwork Name: Right And Left
- Year: 1909
- Medium: Oil On Canvas
- Dimensions: 28 1/4 x 48 3/8 in
The artwork, titled "Right and Left," is an oil on canvas painting created by Winslow Homer in 1909. Measuring 28 1/4 x 48 3/8 inches, it is housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington. The artwork depicts a dramatic scene featuring two ducks in flight over rough, agitated waters, capturing a moment of intense motion and natural energy with striking realism and detail. The composition and dynamic positioning of the birds convey a sense of urgency and life within the natural world.
7. Mending The Nets
- Artwork Name: Mending The Nets
- Year: 1882
- Medium: Watercolor And Gouache Over Graphite
- Dimensions: 27 3/8 x 19 1/4 in
The artwork, titled "Mending The Nets" by Winslow Homer, was created in 1882 using a medium of watercolor and gouache over graphite. It measures 27 3/8 by 19 1/4 inches, and is housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington. The artwork depicts two women engaged in the task of mending fishing nets, highlighting domestic life and labor. The composition captures the serene and diligent nature of their work, reflecting Homer's keen observation of daily life and his adeptness in watercolor techniques. The background offers a subtle, muted environment which further emphasizes the focused activity of the figures.
8. Mink Pond
- Artwork Name: Mink Pond
- Year: 1891
- Medium: Watercolor Over Graphite
- Dimensions: 13 7/8 x 20 in (35.2 x 50.8 cm)
The artwork titled "Mink Pond," created by Winslow Homer in 1891, is rendered in watercolor over graphite, measuring 13 7/8 x 20 inches (35.2 x 50.8 cm). This piece is currently housed at the Fogg Art Museum in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The artwork portrays a tranquil aquatic scene featuring a detailed depiction of marine life, with a frog resting on a lily pad, a fish swimming beneath the water's surface, and a white water lily in full bloom, reflecting the serenity and delicate beauty of nature.
9. Inviting A Shot Before Petersburg, Virginia
- Artwork Name: Inviting A Shot Before Petersburg, Virginia
- Year: 1864
- Medium: Oil On Panel
- Dimensions: 12 x 18 in
The artwork titled "Inviting A Shot Before Petersburg, Virginia," created by Winslow Homer in 1864, is an oil on panel painting measuring 12 by 18 inches. Currently housed at The Detroit Institute Of Arts, this piece depicts a soldier confidently standing atop a hill, seemingly inviting enemy fire during the Siege of Petersburg in the American Civil War. The composition captures the tense atmosphere of the era, with the soldier's posture and the surrounding landscape conveying both the bravery and the peril of the battlefield. The sky, painted in varied shades of blue and gray, adds to the somber yet resolute mood of the scene.
10. The Adirondack Guide
- Artwork Name: The Adirondack Guide
- Year: 1894
- Medium: Watercolor over graphite on cream wove paper
- Dimensions: 15 1/8 x 21 1/2 in (38.4 x 54.6 cm)
"The Adirondack Guide," created in 1894 by renowned artist Winslow Homer, is a watercolor over graphite on cream wove paper. Measuring 15 1/8 by 21 1/2 inches (38.4 by 54.6 cm), the artwork is housed in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. The painting masterfully captures the serene essence of outdoor life, depicting a lone guide navigating a canoe through a forested area. The rich, dark tones and meticulous detail reflect Homer's proficiency in conveying the tranquility and solitary beauty of nature, immersing the viewer in the calm and reflective atmosphere of the Adirondack wilderness.
11. Cape Trinity, Saguenay River
- Artwork Name: Cape Trinity, Saguenay River
- Year: 1904-09
- Medium: Oil On Canvas
- Dimensions: 28 3/4 x 48 3/4 in
The artwork titled "Cape Trinity, Saguenay River," created by Winslow Homer between 1904 and 1909, is an oil on canvas piece measuring 28 3/4 x 48 3/4 inches. The artwork depicts a dramatic and moody landscape, characterized by towering cliffs rising steeply from the Saguenay River. The scene is enveloped in a somber, overcast sky, casting a subdued light that enhances the imposing and majestic presence of the cliffs. The overall composition captures the raw, natural beauty and ruggedness of the river's environment, demonstrating Homer's mastery in portraying the sublime qualities of nature.
12. Fisherwoman
- Artwork Name: Fisherwoman
- Year: c. 1882
- Medium: Watercolor
- Dimensions: 14 1/2 x 21 in. (36.8 x 53.3 cm)
The artwork "Fisherwoman," created circa 1882 by Winslow Homer, is a watercolor painting measuring 14 1/2 by 21 inches (36.8 by 53.3 cm). The artwork artfully captures a solitary fisherwoman standing on a shoreline, gazing toward the sea, bathed in a somber and moody light. Her form and attire are rendered with delicate precision, set against a backdrop of turbulent waves and a forbidding sky, which masterfully conveys the rugged and harsh life of those who make their living from the sea.
13. The End Of The Hunt
- Artwork Name: The End Of The Hunt
- Year: 1892
- Medium: Watercolor And Graphite
- Dimensions: 15 1/8 x 21 3/8 in. (38.4 x 54.3 cm)
The artwork titled "The End of the Hunt," created by Winslow Homer in 1892, is a watercolor and graphite piece measuring 15 1/8 x 21 3/8 inches (38.4 x 54.3 cm). The artwork portrays a serene yet poignant scene capturing two hunters in a small boat, seemingly concluding their expedition. One hunter is seen with an oar, while the other appears to be retrieving or tending to a deer, which lies at the bottom of the boat. The backdrop features a dense, darkened forest as dusk falls, and the water surrounding the boat reflects the diminishing light, adding a touch of tranquility to the intense moment. The craftsmanship of Homer is apparent in his detailed rendering and subtle use of light and shadow.
14. Hunter in the Adirondacks
- Artwork Name: Hunter in the Adirondacks
- Year: 1892
- Medium: Watercolor over graphite
- Dimensions: 13 7/8 x 22 7/16 in. (35.2 x 57 cm)
The artwork, entitled "Hunter in the Adirondacks," was created by Winslow Homer in 1892. It is executed in watercolor over graphite with the dimensions of 13 7/8 x 22 7/16 inches (35.2 x 57 cm). The piece is housed at the Fogg Art Museum, Harvard University. The artwork depicts a solitary hunter in a dense forest of the Adirondacks, characterized by its use of natural tones and intricate detailing that effectively conveys the serene yet rugged landscape. The hunter stands on a fallen tree, emphasizing the untamed wilderness through the interplay of light and shadow, evoking a sense of adventurous solitude and connection with nature.
15. West Point, Prout's Neck, Maine
- Artwork Name: West Point, Prout's Neck, Maine
- Year: 1900
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 30 1/4 x 48 1/4 in (76.8 x 122.6 cm)
The artwork, entitled "West Point, Prout's Neck, Maine," was created by Winslow Homer in 1900 using oil on canvas and measures 30 1/4 by 48 1/4 inches (76.8 by 122.6 cm). The painting, currently located at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts, captures the dynamic and turbulent nature of the Maine coastline. It features an expansive, dramatic seascape with crashing waves against rocky shores set beneath a vibrant, atmospheric sky, showcasing Homer's masterful rendering of light and movement.
16. Watching the Tempest
- Artwork Name: Watching the Tempest
- Year: 1881
- Medium: Watercolor over graphite
- Dimensions: 13 7/8 x 18 3/4 in (35.3 x 47.6 cm)
"Watching the Tempest" is a watercolor over graphite artwork created by Winslow Homer in 1881. This evocative piece, measuring 13 7/8 x 18 3/4 inches (35.3 x 47.6 cm), is housed at the Fogg Art Museum in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The artwork portrays the intense scene of individuals struggling to secure boats against a backdrop of rough seas and stormy weather, capturing the dynamic interplay between human endeavor and the formidable forces of nature.
17. On a Lee Shore
- Artwork Name: On a Lee Shore
- Year: 1900
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 39 x 39 in
"On a Lee Shore," created by Winslow Homer in 1900, is an oil painting on canvas with dimensions of 39 by 39 inches, currently housed at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence. The artwork vividly captures the tumultuous sea near the shore, embodying the raw power and dynamic movement of nature. Waves crash forcefully against rocks, creating a dramatic scene of foamy water and mist, while a solitary sailing vessel is seen in the distance, highlighting both the peril and beauty of maritime life. The interplay of dark, stormy colors and the masterful depiction of motion in the sea showcases Homer's skill in portraying nature’s untamed forces with remarkable realism and intensity.
18. Home, Sweet Home
- Artwork Name: Home, Sweet Home
- Year: 1863
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 21 1/2 x 16 1/2 in
"Home, Sweet Home," an oil painting on canvas created by Winslow Homer in 1863, measures 21 1/2 by 16 1/2 inches and is currently held in a private collection. The artwork depicts a poignant scene of two soldiers during the American Civil War, with one standing and the other sitting, exemplifying a moment of respite amidst their encampment. The setting is detailed with the presence of tents and campfire, capturing the essence of the soldiers' temporary home. The composition and use of light convey a sense of longing and contemplation, reflecting the theme of solace and the yearning for home during times of conflict.
19. The Fox Hunt
- Artwork Name: The Fox Hunt
- Year: 1893
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 38 x 68 1/2 in. (96.6 x 174.2 cm)
"The Fox Hunt," an oil on canvas artwork by Winslow Homer created in 1893, is housed at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia, PA, USA. Measuring 38 x 68 1/2 inches (96.6 x 174.2 cm), this painting belongs to the Realism movement and features the genre of wildlife painting. The artwork portrays a solitary fox in a snow-covered landscape, seemingly hunted by a flock of menacing black birds under a blue and cloudy sky, capturing a tense and dramatic moment in nature.
20. The Woodcutter
- Artwork Name: The Woodcutter
- Year: 1891
- Medium: Watercolor on Paper
- Dimensions: 13 3/4 x 19 7/8 in. (34.9 x 50.5 cm)
"The Woodcutter," a watercolor on paper created in 1891 by Winslow Homer, is a poignant example of Realism and genre painting. Measuring 13 3/4 x 19 7/8 inches (34.9 x 50.5 cm), the artwork is currently housed in a private collection. The piece depicts a solitary figure, axe in hand, standing on a precipice and looking out over a vast, forested landscape under a dramatic sky. The scene captures the essence of human endeavor and contemplation against the backdrop of nature, embodying the Realist fascination with everyday life and the natural environment.
21. Hurricane, Bahamas
- Artwork Name: Hurricane, Bahamas
- Year: 1898
- Medium: Watercolor
- Dimensions: 14 1/2 x 21 in. (36.8 x 53.3 cm)
The artwork, titled "Hurricane, Bahamas," was created by Winslow Homer in 1898 and is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, NY, US. As part of the Realism movement, this watercolor landscape measures 14 1/2 x 21 inches (36.8 x 53.3 cm). The piece depicts a dramatic scene dominated by dark, foreboding storm clouds and windswept palm trees, with the rooftops of structures in the foreground suggesting the imminent impact of a hurricane. The vigorous brushstrokes and somber color palette encapsulate the tension and raw natural force, characteristic of Homer's ability to convey the sublime power of nature.
22. Sailing the Catboat
- Artwork Name: Sailing the Catboat
- Year: 1875
- Medium: Watercolor and gouache over graphite
- Dimensions: 7 1/2 x 13 3/4 in. (19.1 x 34.9 cm)
"Sailing the Catboat," created by Winslow Homer in 1875, is a distinguished work of Realism executed in watercolor and gouache over graphite. Measuring 7 1/2 by 13 3/4 inches (19.1 by 34.9 cm), this marina genre painting resides in a private collection. The artwork vividly captures a group of individuals in a catboat, navigating the ocean waves under a seemingly turbulent sky, effectively illustrating the simplicity and beauty of everyday maritime life. The use of light and shadow, along with the dynamic composition, exemplifies Homer's mastery in rendering outdoor scenes with a remarkable sense of immediacy and naturalism.
23. Prisoners from the Front
- Artwork Name: Prisoners from the Front
- Year: 1866
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 60.96 x 96.52 cm
The artwork titled "Prisoners from the Front," painted by Winslow Homer in 1866, is an oil on canvas belonging to the Realism art movement. This genre painting, measuring 60.96 x 96.52 cm, is housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, NY, US. The artwork depicts a poignant scene from the American Civil War, where a Union officer confronts four Confederate soldiers who stand as prisoners. The composition is characterized by Homer's meticulous attention to detail, capturing the weary expressions and varied postures of the figures against a somber battlefield backdrop, effectively conveying the gravity and humanity of wartime experiences.
24. Dressing for the Carnival
- Artwork Name: Dressing for the Carnival
- Year: 1877
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 50.8 x 76.2 cm
The artwork, titled "Dressing for the Carnival," was created by Winslow Homer in 1877 and is rendered in the medium of oil on canvas. This genre painting, measuring 50.8 by 76.2 centimeters, aligns with the Realism movement and is presently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The artwork depicts a group of African Americans preparing for a carnival, capturing a poignant and intimate moment of cultural expression and community. The composition beautifully balances light and shadow, highlighting the vibrant clothing and earnest interactions of the figures, thereby evoking a sense of shared anticipation and celebration.
25. The Gulf Stream
- Artwork Name: The Gulf Stream
- Year: 1906
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 71.5 x 124 cm
"The Gulf Stream," an oil painting on canvas by Winslow Homer created in 1906, stands as a powerful representation of the Realism movement. Measuring 71.5 by 124 centimeters, this marina genre artwork vividly depicts a dramatic maritime scene where a solitary man is adrift in a small boat surrounded by ominous waves and menacing sharks, subtly challenging the tenuous connection between humanity and nature. Exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, the artwork encapsulates the poignant struggle and vulnerability of man's existence against the overwhelming forces of the ocean.
26. Summer Night
- Artwork Name: Summer Night
- Year: 1890
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 102 x 76.7 cm
"Summer Night," created in 1890 by Winslow Homer, is an oil on canvas artwork belonging to the Realism movement. Measuring 102 by 76.7 cm, this marina genre painting is housed at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris. The artwork depicts an evocative night scene by the seaside, where two women dance together on a wooden platform, their white dresses illuminated by the moonlight reflecting off the turbulent ocean waves. The background features a dark, expansive sea and silhouetted figures sitting on the shore, capturing the serene yet powerful essence of a summer night.
27. The Life Line
- Artwork Name: The Life Line
- Year: 1884
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 29 x 45 in
The artwork, titled "The Life Line," was crafted by Winslow Homer in 1884 using oil on canvas. As a notable piece in the Realism movement, this genre painting measures 29 by 45 inches and is currently housed at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The painting vividly captures a dramatic sea rescue, depicting a stormy seascape wherein two figures are suspended above tumultuous waves, emphasizing the peril and heroism inherent in the moment.