Skip to main content

Shad Fishing at Gloucester on the Delaware River

1881
Thomas Eakins (American, 1844–1916)
This painting's composition was determined by the most distant view from the photographs Eakins had selected. Over the tracing of that image on the canvas, he projected a closer view to replace or add fishermen. He edited out the spectators in the original photograph, and projected his family slightly lower in their place. Between the two painted versions of this subject, Eakins shifted the emphasis to his family, who admire the dedication and skill of the fishermen.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.