Artwork

Skating on the Ladies' Skating Pond in Central Park, New York

Skating on the Ladies' Skating Pond in Central Park, New York, by Winslow Homer, 1860
Skating on the Ladies' Skating Pond in Central Park, New York, by Winslow Homer, 1860

Skating on the Ladies' Skating Pond in Central Park, New York is a print by the Impressionist artist Winslow Homer. It dates from 1860 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

This painting is interesting because it shows what winter was like in New York City a long time ago.

This painting shows people skating on a frozen pond in Central Park.
It's a winter scene with trees and people in old-fashioned clothes.
The people are having fun, some are holding hands, and others are alone.

This painting is interesting because it shows what winter was like in New York City a long time ago.
The artist, Winslow Homer, was good at painting everyday life in America.

You can learn more about this style by looking at the work of artist: Winslow Homer (American, 1836–1910)

Overview

Winslow Homer's Skating on the Ladies' Skating Pond in Central Park, New York is a print capturing a winter scene in Central Park, one of New York City's first public parks.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts people enjoying a day on the frozen pond, dressed in period attire, conveying a sense of leisure and recreation in late 19th-century New York City.

Technique & Style

Homer's work is characterized by a focus on everyday American life, rendered with a solidity and depth that reflects his background in commercial art and studio practice.

Context

Created in 1860, the print offers a glimpse into winter life in New York City during a period of urban development and the establishment of public recreational spaces.

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: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.