1861
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Songs of War is a 1861 ink by American 19th Century, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This image is packed with small scenes showing people in the Civil War era. Soldiers march with rifles, a woman holds a flag, and musicians play instruments. There’s a man on horseback, a drummer, and a group singing—all drawn in black and white with sharp lines. The title *The Songs of War* suggests these images are tied to music and morale during the war. The style looks like it was made quickly, probably to spread ideas fast. Next, look up technique: engraving to see how artists carved these details into wood.
This artist painted everyday American life in the 1800s. Look at *Farmhouse in Mahantango Valley*—a quiet, sunlit scene of rural Pennsylvania. *Boy and Girl* shows two children standing close, their faces turned toward…
See the richer artist page
