Sheep Resting

Winslow Homer's study depicts three sheep in a horizontal composition, rendered with careful observation of posture and form. Two animals rest in lighter tones while a darker brown sheep occupies the center, creating visual weight and variety. Homer employs pencil line and watercolor wash to capture the animals' woolly texture and the subtle play of shadow. Annotations at the lower right suggest this served as a working study for a larger composition. Homer's attention to rural subjects and animal anatomy reflects his engagement with both fine art practice and commercial illustration during the 1870s.