A Winter Morning – Shovelling Out (Every Saturday, Vol. II, New Series)

A Winter Morning – Shovelling Out (Every Saturday, Vol. II, New Series) by Winslow Homer is a defining example of American periodical illustration from the post-Civil War era. Created in 1871, this work is a detailed wood engraving, a prevalent medium for reproducing illustrations and photographs for mass consumption during the 19th century. Homer’s experience as a magazine illustrator allowed him to quickly capture and disseminate moments of daily existence with precision and realism.

The composition captures a familiar domestic reality: the arduous task of clearing accumulated snow after a heavy storm. Homer portrays a cohesive neighborhood defined by houses partially buried under drifts, where men and women diligently engage in the shared labor. The pervasive winter snow blankets the scene, emphasizing the immense scale of the effort required while the figures provide a human element and a sense of enduring community.

As a published print for Every Saturday, this illustration demonstrates Homer’s ability to turn commonplace activities into compelling visual narratives. The scene moves beyond a simple genre depiction to reflect the shared responsibility and necessity of cooperation inherent in American life, especially when confronting environmental challenges like severe weather. This influential work, illustrating Volume II of the periodical’s new series, is now maintained within the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Due to its historical significance and age, this crucial print often circulates freely, with high-quality images accessible through public domain resources.