1859
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Old Westminster Bridge is a 1859 ink by James McNeill Whistler, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows a busy river with small boats and a bridge in the background. A tall tower with a pointed roof stands out near the center. On the left, a few people row or sit in boats, while on the right, a few sailboats float near the shore. The buildings along the riverbank are simple, with some trees and docks visible. The artist used quick, sketchy lines to capture the scene, making it feel lively but unfinished. This style was common in early studies before painting larger works. Next, look up etching to see how artists like this one create detailed prints with acid and needles.
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.
See the richer artist page
