Artwork

Battersea Morn

Battersea Morn, by James McNeill Whistler, ink, 1875
Battersea Morn, by James McNeill Whistler, ink, 1875

Battersea Morn is an ink print by the Impressionist artist James McNeill Whistler. It dates from 1875 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:[Whistler's butterfly signature] upper right composition, in plate, artist's hand. "[Whistler's butterfly signature] imp." lower left margin, graphite, artist's hand. Not dated. "Battersea Dawn" lower left margin, graphite, unknown hand. "k.155I" lower left margin, graphite, unknown hand. "Very rare" lower right margin, graphite, unknown hand. "c.652)" lower right margin, graphite, unknown hand. "1" lower right margin, graphite, unknown hand. "c34603 / asx-" verso, lower left sheet, graphite, unknown hand. "w.125" verso, lower left sheet, graphite, unknown hand. "1er" verso, lower left sheet, graphite, unknown hand.
Markings
Marked:"LRJ" verso, black stamped ink. "National Gallery of Art" verso, black stamped ink. "HB" (Henry H. Benedict collector's stamp) verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 1298).

About this work

Overview

Battersea Morn is a drypoint print on laid paper created by James McNeill Whistler in 1875. It showcases the artist's skill in capturing a serene and atmospheric scene.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a tranquil morning along the Thames, with boats moored in the foreground and the city's buildings rising in the background. The scene conveys a sense of calmness and serenity, emphasizing the beauty of the everyday.

Technique & Style

Whistler's use of drypoint on laid paper adds texture and depth to the print, drawing the viewer's eye into the scene. The technique allows for subtle detail and atmospheric effect, characteristic of Whistler's emphasis on refined composition.

Context

Whistler was an American artist active in the UK during the late 19th century, and his work reflects his belief in 'art for art's sake.' Battersea Morn is a representation of this aesthetic, prioritizing composition and atmosphere over narrative.

Battersea: Dawn
Battersea: Dawn, James McNeill Whistler

Artist & collection

Portrait of James McNeill Whistler

Artist

James McNeill Whistler

James Abbott McNeill Whistler (; July 10, 1834 – July 17, 1903) 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.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Battersea Morn?

Battersea Morn was painted by James McNeill Whistler in 1875.

Where can I see Battersea Morn?

Battersea Morn is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Battersea Morn?

Battersea Morn is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Battersea Morn?

Museum-quality prints of Battersea Morn are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.