1860-1870

published 1870

after Winslow Homer

Associated Names
Winslow Homer

Artist After, American, 1836 - 1910

This is a drawing of a historical allegory focusing on themes of war and peace. The illustration encapsulates various scenes, likely depicting moments and figures significant to the period of the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. Central to the image is a large wheel labeled as the "WHEEL OF THE UNION" with years marked from 1860 to 1869. Around the wheel are scenes of battle, figures representing political or military leaders, naval imagery, and peaceful pastoral life. A prominent figure stands at the top of the wheel holding a scroll labeled "EMANCIPATION." Other elements include a group of soldiers, a naval battle, and a cannon in combat readiness. Below the wheel, peaceful scenes illustrate farming and domestic life, featuring figures working in fields and engaging in homely activities. This drawing encapsulates the transition and contrast between times of war and peace, with historical and allegorical significance reflecting the era's pivotal developments.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    wood engraving on newsprint

  • Credit Line

    Avalon Fund

  • Dimensions

    image: 34.2 x 52 cm (13 7/16 x 20 1/2 in.)
    sheet (torn): 40.6 x 55 cm (16 x 21 5/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1986.31.267

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Foster 1936, no. 94

  • Series Title

    From "Harper's Weekly", January 8, 1870, p.24-25


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

2005

  • Winslow Homer in the National Gallery of Art, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., 2005-2006, unnumbered brochure.

Bibliography

1936

  • Foster, Allen Evarts. "A check list of illustrations by Winslow Homer in 'Harper's Weekly' and other periodicals." Bulletin of the New York Public Library 40 (1936): 842-852. Separately published New York: New York Public Library, 1936.

1969

  • Gelman 1969, no.210.

1977

  • Kelsey 1977, no.194.

Inscriptions

center right in plate: HOMER DEL; lower center: 1860-1870.-[See Page 26.]

Wikidata ID

Q74073750

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