Woman in a Sunbonnet 1874

Winslow Homer made this drawing of a woman in a sunbonnet using graphite and crayon on paper. Here, Homer uses the inherent qualities of these humble materials to capture the essence of his subject. The use of graphite allows for delicate shading and subtle details, as seen in the rendering of the woman's face and the folds of her sunbonnet. The crayon adds depth and texture to the composition, particularly in the darker areas of the drawing. The marks are visible and direct, imbuing the work with a sense of immediacy and honesty. By choosing these accessible, everyday materials, Homer blurs the lines between high art and craft. In doing so, he elevates the ordinary, reminding us of the inherent beauty and dignity of the lives of everyday people. This close attention to materials, making, and social context reveals the true meaning of Homer's work.