The Life LineMade in United States, North and Central America
Winslow Homer, American, 1836 - 1910 Oil on canvas E1924-4-15The
George W. Elkins Collection, 1924 LabelThe dramatic rescue from
a foundering ship shown here was made possible by a recent
innovation in lifesaving technology, the breeches buoy. Secured
firmly to ship and shore, the device permitted the transfer of
stranded passengers to safety by means of a pulley that was
hauled back and forth by crews at either end. Cropped down to
its essentials, Homer's composition thrusts us into the midst of
the action with massive waves rolling past, drenching the
semiconscious woman and her anonymous savior. The Life Line was
immediately recognized by critics as a major contribution to
American art, portraying a heroic, contemporary subject with
both painterly virtuosity and detailed observation. Social Tags
[?]landscape [x] nhd 1861 to 1877 maritime [x] rescue [x]
seascape [x] victorian [x] waves [x] [Add Your Own Tags] * Works
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