The Nooning (from "Harper's Weekly," Vol. XVII)
Original title: The Nooning (from "Harper's Weekly," Vol. XVII)
kurzbeschreibung
Winslow Homer's wood engraving "Die Mittagsruhe" (The Noon Rest), published in Harper's Weekly in 1873, presents a rural scene of repose: three seated figures, one lying down, and a dog.
Description
Four people have settled on a meadow—three sitting, one lying on their back. Hats and garments point to the 19th century. A dog rests beside them in the grass. Trees, a house, and a clothesline with laundry hanging form the rear area. The gathering feels everyday and peaceful.
Context
In 1873 Winslow Homer worked regularly for Harper's Weekly, one of the leading illustrated magazines in the United States. Many of his wood engravings are devoted to country life and American leisure. This print appeared on August 16, 1873, and belongs to a series of images that idealize simple rural life.
Impact
A quiet, idyllic mood emanates from the arrangement and invites lingering. Because everyday life is portrayed with natural grace, the print gains a timeless quality.
Technique
Cut lines and hatching carry the motif onto paper in this wood engraving. The finely graded lines and shading reveal Homer's skill in rendering texture and light.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)