On the Beach (from "The Mistress of the Parsonage," in "Harper's Weekly") 1860

"On the Beach" is an 1860 wood engraving by Winslow Homer, depicting a dramatic scene of a man pleading with a woman on a beach, while another figure watches from a distance. The illustration was originally published in *Harper's Weekly*, a popular American magazine, and is a fine example of Homer’s early work as an illustrator, showcasing his talent for storytelling and capturing emotion through detailed line work. The scene evokes a sense of tension and uncertainty, leaving viewers to interpret the characters' motivations and the unfolding narrative. This work exemplifies Homer's transition from a commercial artist to one whose subject matter would later include the grandeur of nature.