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Eight Bells

Winslow Homer

1887

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Impressionism Realism Late 19th Century

Dominant colour

Eight Bells is a 1887 ink by Winslow Homer, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Winslow Homer
When & what style?: 1887 · Impressionism
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

Two sailors stand on a ship’s deck, looking out at a stormy sea. One holds a telescope to his eye, his hat pulled low, while the other leans on a rifle, peering ahead. The sky is thick with dark clouds, and the waves crash below. The painting uses rough, textured lines to show the rough sea and windblown clothes. This style makes the scene feel real and urgent. Check out etching to see how artists like this create detailed prints with metal plates and acid.