Who painted Spring Lamb?

Spring Lamb was painted by Winslow Homer in 1880.

Where can I see Spring Lamb?

Spring Lamb is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Spring Lamb?

Spring Lamb is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Spring Lamb

Winslow Homer , 1880

Spring Lamb is a print by the Impressionist artist Winslow Homer. It dates from 1880 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The painting shows a small lamb standing alone in a field.
It's a simple scene, but what's interesting is the way the light falls on the lamb's wool.
The artist used everyday life as inspiration for many of his works, which is partly why this lamb feels so relatable.
Check out the work of artist: Winslow Homer (American, 1836–1910) for more scenes like this.

Overview

Created in 1880, *Spring Lamb* is a print by American artist Winslow Homer (1836–1910). Though best known for his marine subjects, this work belongs to a series in which Homer turned his attention to rural and working‑class settings, capturing a quiet moment in the countryside.

Subject & Meaning

The image presents a solitary lamb standing in an open field, its wool illuminated by soft daylight. The simplicity of the composition emphasizes the animal’s presence within an everyday landscape, reflecting Homer’s interest in ordinary scenes that convey a sense of calm and natural rhythm.

Technique & Style

Executed as a print, the work relies on careful line work and tonal contrast to render the texture of the lamb’s fleece and the surrounding terrain. Homer’s handling of light—highlighting the wool’s surface—demonstrates his skill in translating atmospheric effects from his oil and watercolor practice into a graphic medium.

History & Provenance

Homer began his career as a commercial illustrator before moving toward oil painting and watercolor, establishing himself as a leading figure in 19th‑century American art. *Spring Lamb* reflects this later period of his output, when he explored non‑maritime subjects; the print has since been included in collections that document his broader engagement with American rural life.