Little Court

c. 1880/1881

James McNeill Whistler

Associated Names
James McNeill Whistler

Artist, American, 1834 - 1903

The image displays a street view from a low vantage point, emphasizing building facades and figures at ground level. The structures are illustrated with loose and sketchy strokes, capturing the scene's essence over precise details. Closest to us, various figures engage in daily activities, with carts present, enhancing the busy ambiance. In the background, buildings show windows and doorways with rough outlines. The monochromatic color scheme uses various shades of brown, relying on texture for depth. The artwork conveys spontaneity and impression, prioritizing the capture of the moment over intricate realism.

Media Options

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

Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Collection of Mr. James Watson Webb [1884-1960] and Mrs. Electra Havemeyer Webb [1888-1960], Los Angeles and Vermont; gift to NGA, 1942.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1910

  • Kennedy, Edward G. The Etched Work of Whistler. New York: Grolier Club, 1910, no. 236.

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. 244, state ia/ii.

Inscriptions

on plate: (2 butterflies); on tab: (butterfly) imp; lower left on the verso: Whistler (upside down and underlined with a slightly oblique line)

Watermarks

none

Wikidata ID

Q64958896

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