Distressed Boat (Sketch for "The Gulf Stream") (recto); Floor Plan Diagram; Elevation of a domestic residence (verso)

Distressed Boat (Sketch for "The Gulf Stream") (recto); Floor Plan Diagram; Elevation of a domestic residence (verso) by Winslow Homer, executed in 1885, provides a compelling, dual-sided view of the artist’s preliminary process. This piece, rendered in graphite on paper, reveals both Homer’s intensive preparation for major marine works and his everyday practical concerns.

The recto side features a detailed study of a distressed boat caught in rough seas. This intense sketch, dominated by dynamic lines resolving the action of the water and the structure of the craft, directly precedes the celebrated painting The Gulf Stream. Homer often used such preparatory drawings to establish the core composition and the complex interplay of natural forces before moving to oil.

The verso offers an unexpected contrast, bearing architectural diagrams including a floor plan and an elevation for a domestic residence. This utilitarian inclusion speaks to the resourceful nature of the artist, utilizing every available surface of the paper for documentation and design while working in the United States. Homer employs graphite with quick, assured marks to delineate both the turbulence of the ocean and the precise structure of the building plan. This juxtaposition highlights the artist's dedication to observational drawing, whether focusing on the elemental power of the sea or the geometric requirements of architecture.

This critical preparatory work is housed within the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, demonstrating the enduring scholarly interest in the technical development of the renowned American artist. As a significant historical drawing, this piece occasionally enters the public domain, making high-quality prints and reproductions available to a wider audience.