The War for the Union, 1862 - A Bayonet Charge
1862
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1862
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This painting shows Union soldiers charging with bayonets during the Civil War. The soldiers look scared but determined, faces half lit by the sun. Dark shadows stretch behind them, making the scene feel urgent. Homer didn’t paint a famous battle. He focused on the raw fear and chaos of war instead of glory. The brushwork is rough, almost sketchy in places. Look up Winslow Homer (American, 1836–1910) to see more of his war scenes.
