Who painted Home from the War?

Home from the War was painted by American 19th Century in 1863.

Where can I see Home from the War?

Home from the War is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Home from the War?

Home from the War is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Home from the War

American 19th Century , 1863

Home from the War is an ink print by the Impressionist artist American 19th Century. It dates from 1863 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Home from the War is a wood engraving on newsprint, depicting a poignant scene of a soldier's return amidst a crowd of people in antiquated attire.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure, a soldier in a dark hat, is shown reunited with loved ones—a woman whose hand he holds and another woman with a child. The scene conveys emotional reunion and the return to domestic life after conflict.

Technique & Style

Executed in simple, bold lines, the engraving prioritizes expressive emotion over detailed rendering. Rough, expressive faces with prominent eyes and strong lines characterize the figures, set against a bustling background of quickly drawn, dark, scratchy marks.

Context

The use of wood engraving on newsprint suggests the work may have been intended for widespread dissemination, potentially commenting on the universal experience of soldiers returning from war.

Artist & collection

Artist

American 19th Century

This artist painted everyday American life in the 1800s. Look at *Farmhouse in Mahantango Valley*—a quiet, sunlit scene of rural Pennsylvania. *Boy and Girl* shows two children standing close, their faces turned toward…