"Winter" – A Skating Scene (from "Harper's Weekly," Vol. XII) 1868

Winslow Homer's "Winter – A Skating Scene" (1868) is a wood engraving, a popular printing technique of the 19th century. This dynamic scene, originally published in "Harper's Weekly," depicts a group of figures ice skating on a frozen pond. Homer masterfully captures the energy of the activity, conveyed through the windswept hair and flowing garments of the skaters. The composition also reveals Homer's interest in capturing everyday life, showcasing the popular winter pastime of ice skating in 19th-century America. This artwork is a prime example of Homer's early career, showcasing his talent for depicting realistic scenes with a sense of immediacy and movement.