The Great Russian Ball at the Academy of Music, November 5, 1863

The Great Russian Ball at the Academy of Music, November 5, 1863 is a seminal work by the American artist Winslow Homer, published in the widely circulated illustrated journal Harper's Weekly. Executed in 1863, the piece is a wood engraving on buff wove paper, showcasing Homer's early career focus on documentary reportage and genre scenes during the pivotal era of the American Civil War. Though the nation was gripped by conflict, this image captures a moment of social spectacle and diversion within the United States, illustrating a grand benefit event held at the Academy of Music in New York City.

Homer, serving as a primary illustrator for Harper's, excelled at depicting complex, crowded interior scenes. The event, the spectacular Russian Ball, was a significant social gathering, likely intended to raise funds and demonstrate elite solidarity during wartime. This detailed print demonstrates Homer’s developing skill in translating the reflected light and deep atmosphere of a ballroom through the demanding technical process of wood engraving, which allowed for the rapid reproduction necessary for mass media. The work exemplifies the importance of illustrated prints in mid-19th century American culture, providing millions of readers with visual access to major cultural affairs. This important historical document, considered part of the public domain heritage, is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.