Outward Bound (Dublin) 1855 - 1865

Erskine Nicol's "Outward Bound (Dublin)" is a hand-colored etching on paper depicting a man in Dublin, Ireland in the mid-19th century. The man is dressed in a green coat, brown trousers, and white socks, with a bag slung over his shoulder. The poster that he is reading advertises the “Shamrock Line” to New York City. The artwork highlights the growing emigration from Ireland and the attraction of America. The print's title, as well as the poster, make it evident that the man is preparing to depart his homeland for a new beginning in America, a common theme of Nicol's work.