The War--Making Havelocks for the Volunteers

Winslow Homer

1 of 2

Object Label

During the four years he spent documenting the Civil War for Harper’s Weekly, Winslow Homer also depicted the war’s effect on those back at home. Two months after the conflict broke out, he highlighted the domestic role of women in this illustration of a sewing circle in which respectable young women diligently sew uniforms and attach havelocks (sun-shielding coverings) to the back of military hats. Though the image seems to be one of tranquillity and comfort, the ladies’ somber expressions hint at the emotional restraint exercised at this urgent and uncertain time. The large flag at right and the portrait of the soldier at left suggest both the patriotic and personal devotion behind the women’s work.

Caption

Winslow Homer American, 1836–1910. The War--Making Havelocks for the Volunteers, 1861. Wood engraving, Illustration: 9 x 13 3/4 in. Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Harvey Isbitts, 1998.105.58. No known copyright restrictions (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 1998.105.58_bw.jpg)

Gallery

Not on view

Collection

American Art

Title

The War--Making Havelocks for the Volunteers

Date

1861

Medium

Wood engraving

Classification

Print

Dimensions

Illustration: 9 x 13 3/4 in.

Signatures

In box at lower right: "HOMER"

Credit Line

Gift of Harvey Isbitts

Accession Number

1998.105.58

Rights

No known copyright restrictions

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