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← Winslow Homer Winslow Homer — Fly Fishing, Saranac Lake

Fly Fishing, Saranac Lake

Original title: Fly Fishing, Saranac Lake

Artist
Winslow Homer
Date
1889
Medium
Etching
Dimensions
image: 16 x 22 1/16 in. (40.6 x 56 cm) sheet: 21 5/8 x 28 1/8 in. (54.9 x 71.5 cm)
Credit line
Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1924

kurzbeschreibung

An 1889 etching by Winslow Homer titled Fliegenfischen, Saranac Lake. It depicts an angler in a boat on a lake, holding a fishing rod and a net. The monochrome print measures 40.6 x 56 cm (image size).

Description

A man in a cap and jacket sits in a simple boat. In his right hand he holds a fishing rod; his left holds a second rod from which a fishing net with a caught fish hangs into the water. A paddle is attached at the stern. Trees and a cloudy sky close the view, and the water reflects the boat and angler. The gray tones remain even, with no strong shadows.

Context

During a stay in the Adirondacks, where he often fished and hunted, Homer made this etching in 1889. Saranac Lake was a popular destination for recreational anglers in the late 19th century. At that time Homer was exploring etching, influenced by his work as an illustrator and painter. Fly fishing appears in several of his works and reflects his fascination with nature and sport.

Impact

Calm and concentration emanate from the print, drawing the eye into the quiet waterscape. Fine lines and the monochrome gray tonality provide graphic clarity that highlights Homer's draughtsmanship. The view feels both documentary and poetic, without sentimental elevation.

Technique

Homer worked with etching, an intaglio process in which the drawing is etched into a metal plate. Fine lines and hatching model light and shadow. The prints were made in a limited edition, with the plate re-inked for each impression.

AI-generated description text

Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)