Detail from The Canal, Amsterdam, 1889, James McNeill Whistler, The Hunterian, University of Glasgow

 

YMSM 172
Nocturne

Artist: James McNeill Whistler
Date: 1875/1877
Collection: The Hunterian, University of Glasgow
Accession Number: GLAHA 46361
Medium: oil
Support: canvas
Size: 55.5 x 39.4 cm (21 7/8 x 15 1/2")
Signature: none
Inscription: none
Frame: partial Flat Whistler, with painted 'seigaha' and partial butterfly

Nocturne

Titles

Only one title has been suggested:

  • 'Nocturne' (1973, Colnaghi). 1
  • 'Nocturne' (1980, YMSM). 2

Description

Nocturne, The Hunterian
Nocturne, The Hunterian

A nocturnal scene in vertical format. The view is from a height, looking down at a pier or jetty or promenade at lower left, which cuts diagonally across the corner. Beyond and to right is an expanse of water with sailing ships or barges seen faintly. In the distance at left are the silhouettes of buildings and chimneys reflected in the water. There appears to be a bridge in the far distance.

Site

Possibly the Thames, London – it may represent the Westminster Reach of the river – although other suggestions include Valparaiso and Venice. Grieve suggested that Nocturne might be a view from the Casa Jankowitz looking east towards the Public Gardens, with the Lido in the distance. 3

Notes:

1: Young, A. McLaren, Glasgow University's Pictures, Colnaghi, London, 1973 (cat. no. 75).

2: YMSM 1980 [more] (cat. no. 172).

3: Grieve 2000 [more] , p. 124.

Last updated: 2nd November 2020 by Margaret