The present woodcut engraving is an original print designed by Winslow Homer, originally published in Harper's Weekly on April 30, 1859. It is an excellent example of the many prints Homer produced of fashionable people engaged in leisurely activities, in this case along a picturesque countryside lane. The sign reading 'Belmont' on the left indicates this is probably near his home in Belmont Massachusetts. The image presents multiple figures, both men and women, riding horseback: Some in the distance gallop away, toward a town marked by a church steeple beyond. Three others in the foreground, including two equestrian women, gather around a group of children who have been gathering flowers and trapping birds. Another of the children holds a pole with a May Day wreath at its top. The print thus not only celebrates the holiday but also modern life and the modern woman.

9.5 x 13.75 inches, artwork
18.50 x 23.25 inches, frame

Entitled "May Day in the Country" bottom center (covered by matting)

Framed to conservation standards using archival materials including 100 percent rag matting, museum glass, and housed in a toned silver gilt molding in excellent condition; some minor toning to paper