Artwork

The Butcher's Dog

The Butcher's Dog, by James McNeill Whistler, ink, 1896
The Butcher's Dog, by James McNeill Whistler, ink, 1896

The Butcher's Dog is an ink print by the Impressionist artist James McNeill Whistler. It dates from 1896 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Butcher's Dog is a lithograph created by James McNeill Whistler in 1896. It is a print on wove paper, executed in black.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a dog outside a butcher's shop, with people inside. The dog is the central figure, shown in profile with its ears and tail raised. The scene conveys a sense of activity and everyday life, reflecting Whistler's focus on refined artistic expression over sentimental or moral themes.

Technique & Style

The lithograph is characterized by bold lines and minimal shading, creating a simple and direct effect. The use of lithography lends the piece a sense of immediacy and spontaneity, capturing a moment in time.

The Butcher's Dog
The Butcher's Dog, 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.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Butcher's Dog?

The Butcher's Dog was painted by James McNeill Whistler in 1896.

Where can I see The Butcher's Dog?

The Butcher's Dog is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Butcher's Dog?

The Butcher's Dog is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of The Butcher's Dog?

Museum-quality prints of The Butcher's Dog are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.