Artwork
The Seventy-Ninth Regiment (Highlanders) New York State Militia
The Seventy-Ninth Regiment (Highlanders) New York State Militia 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
Overview
Created in 1861 by Winslow Homer, *The Seventy-Ninth Regiment (Highlanders) New York State Militia* is a print capturing a moment of American military life on the eve of the Civil War. Homer, transitioning from illustration to fine art, here focuses on a New York militia unit.
Subject & Meaning
The print portrays a solemn line of uniformed soldiers from the Seventy-Ninth Regiment, a New York State Militia unit. The work aims to document the appearance and demeanor of soldiers during the American Civil War era, reflecting Homer’s interest in depicting everyday American life.
Technique & Style
While specific techniques used in this print are not detailed here, Homer’s work often employed chiaroscuro, a method using strong contrasts between light and dark to create volume and depth, which might be observed in the rendering of the soldiers’ uniforms and facial expressions.
History & Provenance
Produced in 1861, the print coincides with the outbreak of the American Civil War. Detailed provenance (ownership history) of the piece is not provided in the available information.
Context
Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War’s onset, the work reflects the militarization of American society at the time. Homer’s shift from commercial illustration to more nuanced artistic explorations of national life is also contextual.
Legacy
As part of Homer’s oeuvre, *The Seventy-Ninth Regiment* contributes to his legacy of capturing quintessential American scenes and figures of the 19th century, though its specific impact or renown within his body of work is not highlighted in the provided details.
Artist & collection
Artist
Winslow Homer (February 24, 1836 – September 29, 1910) was an American landscape painter and illustrator, best known for his marine subjects.
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