The Little Rose of Lyme Regis dates from between October and November 1895 during Whistler's sojourn in Lyme Regis, Dorset. 1

The Little Rose of Lyme Regis, Boston Museum of Fine Arts

On 2 November 1895 the art dealer David Croal Thomson (1855-1930) thanked Whistler for having shown him 'The Rose':

'The artistic treat of seeing the Royalties of Lyme Regis was one never to be forgotten. The Master Smith, The Rose, The Infanta & the other princess are indelibly impressed on my memory & I cannot too warmly speak of their gorgeous colour, their exquisite style & harmony.' 2

In June 1896 Whistler wrote to Edward Guthrie Kennedy (1849-1932), New York dealer, 'I will try and put the few finishing touches on the "Little Rose" without spoiling the picture for you.' 3 However, there is no evidence that he did work on it again.