Artwork

Clothes Exchange, No.II

Clothes Exchange, No.II, by James McNeill Whistler, ink, 1887
Clothes Exchange, No.II, by James McNeill Whistler, ink, 1887

Clothes Exchange, No.II is an ink print by the Impressionist artist James McNeill Whistler. It dates from 1887 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Clothes Exchange, No.

About this work

Overview

Clothes Exchange, No. II is an etching and drypoint print on laid paper created by James McNeill Whistler around 1887.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a bustling street scene under a covered market or bridge, with figures walking and simple buildings surrounding them. The loose, expressive lines convey a sense of urban activity.

Technique & Style

Whistler employed a range of line weights and textures, achieved through etching and drypoint techniques, to create a lively and dynamic scene. The use of crosshatching adds depth and shading to the composition.

Context

This work reflects Whistler's mature style, characterized by a refined yet controlled aesthetic, and his interest in exploring urban themes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of James McNeill Whistler

Artist

James McNeill Whistler

James Abbott McNeill Whistler was an American painter in oils and watercolor, and printmaker, active during the American Gilded Age and based primarily in the United Kingdom.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.