‘Thanksgiving Day,’ by Winslow Homer

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Thanksgiving Day

Winslow Homer

1865

Wood engraving by an unknown engraver

14 1/8 x 9 1/8 inches

Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper, (December 23, 1865): 266

A poignant moment of reflection that marks the end of the Civil War as the musket is put away. [Commentary continues below.]

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The male character here probably fought in the conflict, and the conversion of a weapon into an ornament is a powerful representation of the reassertion of domestic values – of home triumphing over violence and killing. The placement of the gun under a firearm labelled 1776 is a sign of the overwhelming desire to complete the process of nation-making – of true Independence represented by unification. The female character’s melancholic expression is both reflective of what has happened, and hopeful, perhaps, of a better future.

Bibliography

Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper (1865).

Created 29 August 2023