"Dad's Coming!"

"Dad's Coming!" is a significant print created by Winslow Homer in 1873. Executed in the medium of wood engraving, this piece reflects Homer’s early commitment to illustration and narrative imagery during the post-Civil War era in the United States. The technique of wood engraving allowed for rapid reproduction and wide dissemination through popular periodicals, such as Harper’s Weekly, where many of Homer’s compositions first appeared before reaching a mass audience.

Homer utilized the stark contrast and precise linear detail inherent in relief printing to capture scenes of contemporary American domesticity and leisure. Though simple in composition, the artwork captures a moment of intimate anticipation suggested by its title, aligning with the artist's frequent focus on genre scenes that defined life in the burgeoning nation. These illustrative prints were fundamental in shaping visual culture across the country, providing viewers with accessible and often reflective images of everyday realities.

This powerful example of American printmaking demonstrates Homer’s mastery of graphic design and narrative composition even before he dedicated himself primarily to watercolor and oil painting. The work resides in the permanent collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, preserving its contribution to the visual history of the United States. As an influential print from the late 19th century, this early depiction by Homer is frequently cited in discussions concerning the evolution of American illustration and is often included in materials dedicated to public domain art.