Artwork

Sutler's Tent, 3rd Pennsylvania Cavalry [recto]

Sutler's Tent, 3rd Pennsylvania Cavalry [recto], by Winslow Homer, graphite, 1862
Sutler's Tent, 3rd Pennsylvania Cavalry [recto], by Winslow Homer, graphite, 1862

Sutler's Tent, 3rd Pennsylvania Cavalry [recto] is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Winslow Homer. It dates from 1862 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Sutler's Tent, 3rd Pennsylvania Cavalry [recto] is a graphite and charcoal drawing on wove paper created by Winslow Homer in 1862. The work depicts a scene of military life during the American Civil War.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows a group of men in Union military uniforms and hats gathered around a table inside a tent, with some seated and others standing. The setting, part of a larger camp visible in the background, suggests everyday activity within a military encampment.

Technique & Style

Homer employed quick, expressive lines in graphite and charcoal to convey a sense of energy and movement within the static scene, characteristic of his ability to capture quotidian moments.

History & Provenance

Created in 1862, the drawing is a product of Homer's observations during the American Civil War. Specific provenance details are not provided in the available information.

Context

This work reflects Homer's interest in documenting the everyday experiences of soldiers during the Civil War, a period of significant social and political upheaval in the United States.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Winslow Homer

Artist

Winslow Homer

Winslow Homer (February 24, 1836 – September 29, 1910) was an American landscape painter and illustrator, best known for his marine subjects.

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