At Sea--Signalling a Passing Steamer 1871

"At Sea--Signalling a Passing Steamer," an 1871 wood engraving by Winslow Homer, depicts a close-up view of two ships at sea. The viewer sees the stern of a large steamship on the right, and a smaller sailing ship to the left, with a small group of figures signaling from the mast. Homer's mastery of light and shadow, coupled with the dynamic composition, creates a sense of drama and immediacy, emphasizing the isolation and scale of the sea. This work is a testament to Homer's ability to capture the essence of maritime life in the 19th century.