Heimkehr Nach Erster Fahrt 1890

Toby Edward Rosenthal made this genre painting, Heimkehr Nach Erster Fahrt, which translates to 'Homecoming After First Voyage', using oil paint on canvas. Note the artist's craft, and the skilled techniques that have gone into creating this lively scene. The artist's hand is evident in the way he has manipulated the paint to capture the details of the domestic interior. The application of paint and brushstrokes shows an understanding of depth and perspective. The painting tells a story, but is also a record of the artist's labor. Notice the boy wearing a sailor suit at the table, and the other elements of the painting, like his duffel bag on the floor. They all invite us to think about labor and class. We can appreciate the skill involved, not only in the artist's process, but also the boy who had the means to travel by sea. The artwork prompts us to see painting not just as a fine art, but also as a social document.