Artwork

The Artist in the Country

The Artist in the Country, by Winslow Homer, 1869
The Artist in the Country, by Winslow Homer, 1869

The Artist in the Country is a print by the Impressionist artist Winslow Homer. It dates from 1869 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The other sits on a rock, sketching with a small book and pencil, wearing a cap and loose jacket.

This sketch shows two people in a grassy, rocky field. One person stands holding an open umbrella, dressed in a long skirt and simple blouse. The other sits on a rock, sketching with a small book and pencil, wearing a cap and loose jacket.

The umbrella is open even though the sky is clear—maybe for shade. The artist’s focus suggests they’re deeply absorbed in their work.

Next, check out Winslow Homer (American, 1836–1910).

Overview

The Artist in the Country, created by Winslow Homer in 1869, is a print that captures a serene rural scene featuring two individuals, one of whom is engaged in sketching.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a figure, presumed to be an artist, intently sketching in a grassy, rocky field while another person stands nearby under an open umbrella, possibly for shade, on a clear day. The scene reflects Homer's interest in documenting everyday working landscapes.

Technique & Style

Although specific technical details of this 1869 print are not provided, it is characteristic of Homer's transition from commercial illustration to more personal artistic expressions, potentially showcasing his evolving draftsmanship and observation skills.

History & Provenance

Created in 1869 by Winslow Homer, an American artist known for transitioning from illustration to landscape painting. Specific provenance details for this piece are not provided.

Context

Part of Homer's broader practice of chronicling American landscapes and daily life, The Artist in the Country situates the artistic process within a natural, rural context, contrasting with his more renowned marine subjects.

Legacy

As a work from Homer's prolific career, it contributes to his legacy as a leading 19th-century American artist, though its individual impact within his oeuvre is not distinctly highlighted.

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.