Study for ‘The Life Line’ 1882 - 1883

"Study for 'The Life Line'" (1882-1883) is a graphite sketch by American artist Winslow Homer. This preliminary drawing for Homer's famous painting depicts a dramatic scene of a sailor rescuing a drowning man. The powerful composition, with the sailor's strong arms and the limp figure of the rescued man, foreshadows the emotional intensity of the final work. Homer's study reveals his meticulous approach, capturing the details of the figures and the rough texture of the rope and the sea with careful hatching. The sketch provides valuable insight into the development process behind this iconic American artwork.