Artwork
James McNeill Whistler
James McNeill Whistler is a print by the Impressionist artist Henri-Charles Guérard. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1888 etching by Henri Charles Guérard is a portrait of James McNeill Whistler. The work showcases Guérard's skill as a printmaker and features a straightforward depiction of the artist.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait shows Whistler dressed in a dark coat and hat, with his face partially lit and shadows accentuating his features. The simple yet effective use of light and shadow draws attention to his face.
Technique & Style
Guérard employed chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a sense of depth in the portrait. The etching is characterized by its rough-edged paper and the artist's signature in the corner.
History & Provenance
Created in 1888, the etching is part of the late 19th-century French printmaking tradition, reflecting Guérard's background as a French painter and printmaker known for his etchings and lithographs.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Henri Charles Guérard (26 April 1846, Paris - 24 March 1897, Paris) was a French painter and printmaker, particularly in etching and lithography.
