Bathing at Long Branch "Oh, Ain't It Cold" (Every Saturday, Vol. III, New Series) 1871

Winslow Homer’s wood engraving "Bathing at Long Branch" captures the simple pleasures of a summer day at the shore. The three young women in the scene are dressed in bathing costumes, wading in the cool water while a fourth figure stands in the background, providing a sense of everyday life. The engraving's delicate lines, characteristic of Homer’s style, bring a sense of realism to the scene. The title's playful inscription, "Oh, Ain't It Cold," adds a layer of humor to the work, highlighting the contrast between the chilly water and the enjoyment of the moment. This work, which was originally published in the periodical "Every Saturday" in 1871, showcases Homer's ability to depict the human experience with a natural, unaffected approach.