Artwork

The Eve of Victory

The Eve of Victory, by George Bellows, 1918
The Eve of Victory, by George Bellows, 1918

The Eve of Victory is a drawing by George Bellows. It dates from 1918 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Eve of Victory is a drawing created by George Bellows in 1918. It is a characteristic work of the artist's realist style.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts five soldiers in worn uniforms, standing together with tired expressions. One soldier raises his hand to his head, conveying a sense of fatigue or contemplation. The scene may capture a moment of waiting or exhaustion.

Technique & Style

The drawing features quick, scratchy lines and loose renderings of birds and a background structure. The artist's use of rough, expressive strokes conveys a sense of urgency and informality. Notes and measurements in the corners suggest a preparatory or working drawing.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Bellows

Artist

George Bellows

George Wesley Bellows (August 12 or August 19, 1882 – January 8, 1925) was an American realist painter, known for his bold depictions of urban life in New York City.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.