The Riva, No.II

1880

James McNeill Whistler

Associated Names
James McNeill Whistler

Artist, American, 1834 - 1903

The image shows a harbor scene from an elevated perspective. The horizon is defined by a line of buildings along the water's edge. Figures are lightly sketched across an open space, with boats visible to the right. The artwork is created in an etching style, with precise lines capturing architecture, people, and water. The color scheme consists of sepia and beige tones, giving a historical feel. The scene conveys bustle and activity, with people and boats engaged in various actions. Light and shadow create a sense of calm and balance.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching and drypoint in dark brown on Asian laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Accession Number

    1943.3.8541

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    MacDonald 2012, no. 230, only state


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Bought on 14 January 1928 by Lessing Julius Rosenwald [1891-1971], Philadelphia, (Lugt 1760b); gift to NGA, 1943.  

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1931

  • Etchings, Lithographs, Original Drawings, and Autograph Letters by James A. McNeill Whistler, The Free Library of Philadelphia, 1931.

Bibliography

1910

  • Kennedy, Edward G. The Etched Work of Whistler. New York: Grolier Club, 1910, no. 206, i/ii.

2012

  • MacDonald, Margaret F., Grischka Petri, Joanna Meacock.James McNeill Whistler: The Etchings, a catalogue raisonné. University of Glasgow on-line website at http://etchings.arts.gla.ac.uk. University of Glasgow, 2012: no. 230, only state.

Inscriptions

on tab: butterfly 'imp.'; lower right on verso 11544; UXV.; lower left: (DD774)

Wikidata ID

Q65021958

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