Fall Games—the Apple-Bee

Fall Games—the Apple-Bee, created by American artist Winslow Homer (1836-1910) in 1859, captures a lively scene of rural social life in the United States. This print was originally published by the influential periodical Harper's Weekly, reflecting Homer’s early and prolific career as a wood engraver and illustrator documenting contemporary American genre subjects. The medium of wood engraving on paper allowed for the mass reproduction of images, making it a critical format for disseminating visual information and artistic trends throughout the 19th century.

The illustration depicts a domestic or communal gathering, likely associated with the autumn harvest, centered around the traditional “apple-bee” event. Homer excelled at documenting the nuances of local customs and everyday life, often focusing on leisure activities and the interactions of children prior to the turbulence of the Civil War. Scenes such as this offer valuable insight into the social rituals and material culture of the period.

This significant early work by Homer demonstrates his burgeoning talent for composition and realistic observation. The original impression is held in the comprehensive permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, where it serves as an important record of American visual journalism and the development of one of the nation’s most celebrated artists. Because of its age and publication history, Fall Games—the Apple-Bee is frequently found among high-quality public domain images, ensuring continued accessibility for those interested in historical prints and the social history of the United States.