Winslow Homer (1836-1910), Head of a Boy, 1877, pencil on paper, John Wilmerding Collection

As is so often the case with Winslow Homer's images, the subject seems to be contemplating something beyond the pictorial space, yet we are given no clue what may have drawn it. The artist's reluctance to set up narratives with clear resolution, coupled with his bold handling of line, give Head of a Boy its considerable strength.