three figures walking along shoreline; sailboats tied in water

The Seashore, 1883-1885

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Pigments almost the sheerness of a glaze stroked subtly onto the surface of a panel is a hallmark of James Whistler's technique. In The Seashore three bands of color serve as visual shorthand for shore, sea and sky. Each stroke of the ships and figures, as well as the artist's butterfly monogram at bottom right, are distinct elements justified only by their role in achieving perfect balance within the composition.

Whistler realized that small oils like The Seashore would run counter to conventions about the size and degree of finish expected for an exhibition picture at that period. He relished the prospect of the ruckus they would create. One critic was charmed, however, and dubbed them "pygmy pictures" with "big souls."

The frame is a period reproduction of a design that Whistler created specifically for his little oils to emphasize their aesthetic importance and, undoubtedly, their degree of presence overall.

Frame: Gift of the Mr. and Mrs. James S. Nordlie Fund

Details
Title
The Seashore
Artist Life
1834–1903
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2009.16.3
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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three figures walking along shoreline; sailboats tied in water