Young Soldier

About the Artist:
Winslow Homer (1836–1910) was one of America’s foremost 19th-century painters, celebrated for his powerful depictions of everyday life, war, and the natural world. Beginning his career as an illustrator during the Civil War, Homer transitioned to painting, where his mastery of watercolor and oil allowed him to capture both intimate human moments and the raw drama of nature. His works often explore themes of resilience, survival, and the human condition in times of adversity.

About the Artwork:
Created around 1864, during the height of the American Civil War, Young Soldier, Sketch of a Soldier Giving Water to a Wounded Companion is a poignant image of compassion amid conflict. Rather than glorifying the battlefield, Homer focuses on a small, humane gesture: a young soldier tending to his fallen comrade. Rendered with immediacy and sensitivity, the sketch highlights the vulnerability and brotherhood of soldiers, offering a deeply human perspective on war at a time when most art emphasized heroism and victory.

Why We Selected It:
We chose this work because it transcends its historical moment to speak universally about empathy, sacrifice, and humanity in the face of suffering. Its quiet power makes it an exceptional piece for spaces that value depth, reflection, and the stories behind history. More than an artwork, it is a reminder of the bonds that endure even in the harshest circumstances.