Artwork
Seeing the Old Year Out
Seeing the Old Year Out is a print by the Impressionist artist Winslow Homer. It dates from 1861 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
On the left, people in fancy clothes are toasting with wine glasses, laughing, and standing around a table.
This image shows a busy New Year’s Eve party split into two scenes. On the left, people in fancy clothes are toasting with wine glasses, laughing, and standing around a table. On the right, a group sits in a church or hall, watching a clock strike midnight. Above them, cherubs and a dome add a festive touch.
The title *Seeing the Old Year Out* hints this is about celebrating the end of 1860. Notice how the artist used shadows and light to give depth to the crowd—it’s not just flat lines.
If you like this, check out Realism for more paintings that show everyday life plainly.
Overview
Winslow Homer's 1861 print 'Seeing the Old Year Out' is a depiction of a New Year's Eve celebration. The work is a print, part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The print is divided into two scenes: a lavish party with figures toasting and a group in a more subdued setting, watching a clock strike midnight. The title suggests the work is about the transition from 1860 to 1861.
Technique & Style
The artist employed contrasts of light and shadow to create depth in the crowded scenes, moving beyond flat representation. The use of cherubs and a dome adds a festive atmosphere to one of the scenes.
Artist & collection
Artist
Winslow Homer (February 24, 1836 – September 29, 1910) was an American landscape painter and illustrator, best known for his marine subjects.
