Artwork

Sheep

Sheep, by Winslow Homer, gouache, 1878
Sheep, by Winslow Homer, gouache, 1878

Sheep is a gouache drawing by the Impressionist artist Winslow Homer. It dates from 1878 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Winslow Homer's 'Sheep' is a drawing created in 1878, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing rural life. It is executed in dark graphite and white gouache on vat-dyed wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts three sheep in a grassy field, with one sheep directly engaging the viewer. The scene is a representation of pastoral life, a theme Homer explored during his summer trip to a rural New York farm.

Technique & Style

Homer employed a simple yet effective technique, using a pencil and white paint to create a sense of realism. The contrast between dark graphite lines and bright white gouache highlights the texture of the sheep's wool, while the rough paper texture adds to the naturalistic effect.

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.