The Herring Net
1885 Art Institute of Chicago
About this artwork
An oil painting on canvas depicting two fishermen in a small dory hauling a net filled with herring out of the choppy Atlantic ocean. It is one of Homer's most celebrated maritime paintings from his time spent in Maine.
Did you know?
Winslow Homer moved to the remote coastal town of Prout's Neck, Maine, in 1883, where he became obsessed with the elemental power of the sea. 'The Herring Net' reflects this period of his life, showcasing his shift from the bright, recreational themes of his earlier works to the harsh, dangerous realities of professional fishermen. The painting captures the raw labor of the industry, emphasizing the physical exertion required to haul in the heavy, silver-scaled catch amidst an unpredictable ocean.
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The Herring Net
Winslow Homer, 1885
