The Veteran In A New Field

About the Artist

Winslow Homer was one of the foremost American artists of the 19th century, celebrated for his ability to combine realism with deep emotional resonance. His subjects ranged from the everyday life of soldiers and farmers to the relentless power of the sea. Homer’s works often reflect themes of endurance, resilience, and the human condition in the face of change.

About This Artwork

Painted in 1865, just months after the American Civil War ended, The Veteran in a New Field depicts a former Union soldier harvesting wheat with a scythe. His discarded military jacket lies in the corner of the field, symbolizing a transition from war back to peace and labor. The endless field of wheat evokes both abundance and mortality, recalling biblical references to the “grim reaper” while simultaneously celebrating renewal and productivity. Homer’s composition is stark yet powerful, offering a meditation on national healing and personal resilience.

Why We Selected It

This artwork captures the tension between past struggle and future hope. On your wall, it serves as a timeless reminder of renewal, perseverance, and the enduring strength of the human spirit after hardship.