Who painted Prisoners of War?

Prisoners of War was painted by Winslow Homer in 1864.

Where can I see Prisoners of War?

Prisoners of War is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Prisoners of War?

Prisoners of War is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Prisoners of War

Winslow Homer , 1864

Prisoners of War is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Winslow Homer. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Prisoners of War is a graphite drawing on wove paper created by Winslow Homer in 1864.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a group of four men in casual attire and wide-brimmed hats, with a smaller inset sketch of a fifth seated figure. The men's postures and gestures suggest a sense of camaraderie and possibly confinement.

Technique & Style

Homer's use of graphite on wove paper allowed for quick, expressive lines that capture the play of light on the subjects' faces and clothing, with areas of shadow and plain graphite.

Context

The work is associated with the artist's interest in depicting everyday life and scenes, a characteristic of the Realist style.