At Sea—Signalling a Passing Steamer (Every Saturday, Vol. II, New Series)

The powerful 1871 wood engraving, At Sea—Signalling a Passing Steamer (Every Saturday, Vol. II, New Series) by Winslow Homer, exemplifies the artist's foundational work in mass-produced media during the post-Civil War era. Executed as an illustration for the widely circulated periodical, Every Saturday, this print reflects the crucial role of illustrated journalism in disseminating imagery and narratives to the American public in the late 19th century. Homer was highly regarded for his ability to capture contemporary American life, often focusing on maritime themes and the complex logistics of oceanic travel and commerce.

This evocative piece captures a dramatic, high-stakes moment centered around ships crossing paths on the open ocean. Homer masterfully uses the high contrast inherent in the wood engraving process to define the figures, the rolling waves, and the steam emanating from the passing vessel. The composition emphasizes the fragility of human connection at sea, highlighting the necessity of advanced communication and signaling techniques to alert or acknowledge neighboring steamers. This subject matter fits within a larger body of work by Homer that explores the relationship between humanity and the formidable power of nature, particularly through the lens of those who work on ships.

Classified as a print, the work is a significant example of Homer's extensive career in illustration before he fully transitioned to oil painting. It now resides in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Because of its age and status as an important historical document of American illustration, this valuable work is frequently available in the public domain, allowing a wide audience access to high-resolution images of Homer’s early, impactful prints.