Artwork
Little Venice
Little Venice is an ink print by the Impressionist artist James McNeill Whistler. It dates from 1880 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
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- Inscribed:on plate: ( butterfly imp.); on tab: (butterfly imp.);
About this work
Overview
Little Venice is an etching on laid paper created by James McNeill Whistler in 1880. It is a print that showcases the artist's skill in capturing atmospheric scenes.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a serene view of Venice's canal district, characterized by delicate lines and subtle tonal contrasts. The scene is marked by a sense of quietness and intimacy, with buildings, trees, and boats lining the waterway.
Technique & Style
Whistler employed a technique that allowed ink to accumulate in the etched lines, producing a soft, shadowy effect. This approach is typical of quick studies or travel sketches, and is evident in the loose, sketchy lines that comprise the image.
Context
Whistler was an American artist based primarily in the United Kingdom, associated with the 'art for art's sake' movement, which prioritized aesthetic refinement over narrative content.
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Artist & collection
Artist
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.
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