The Russian Ball – In the Supper Room (from "Harper's Weekly," Vol. VII)

The Russian Ball – In the Supper Room (from "Harper's Weekly," Vol. VII) by Winslow Homer, executed in 1863, is a defining example of American journalistic illustration during the Civil War era. This detailed wood engraving captures an intimate social scene published in the widely read periodical Harper's Weekly. Homer, who frequently contributed to the magazine, chronicled both the hardships of the front lines and the contrasting domestic realities of the Northern home front.

The scene transports the viewer to a seemingly frivolous, yet politically significant, event: the lavish supper room during the highly publicized Russian Ball, likely held in New York or Washington D.C. Homer utilizes the stark tonal contrasts typical of the wood engraving technique to highlight the numerous attendees, showing Men and Women gathered around tables laden with refreshments. While the title suggests the grandeur of a formal dance, the focus here is on relaxation and consumption, detailing figures engaged in animated conversation, dining, and drinking. This work provides valuable insight into the leisure activities and conspicuous consumption of elite society during a time of national crisis, where such high-profile balls often served diplomatic or fundraising purposes.

As a classification, this image is designated as a Print. The swift process of wood engraving allowed Homer's illustrations to be rapidly transferred to the printed page, ensuring wide distribution and immediate cultural relevance. Although originally intended for ephemeral journalism, this piece demonstrates Homer’s keen skill in composition and social observation, qualities that would later define his celebrated fine art career. This important historical print is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Prints like this, widely circulated in the 19th century, are often available today through public domain resources, allowing broad access to the work of this iconic American artist.