Titles

Whistler's own title is not known. Only one title is recorded, 'The Gold Ruff', as in the following examples:

• 'The Gold Ruff' (1915, Colnaghi). 1
• 'The Gold Ruff' (1980, YMSM). 2

Description

A woman seated on a sofa, painted on a vertical panel. She sits with her body turned slightly to the left (her right), her face turned to her left. Her dark brown hair is piled high, and she has a short curly fringe. Her left hand is to her side, resting on the seat, possibly holding a cloak or boa, or other clothing. Her right arm, extended, appears to be holding a black hat or cloak. She wears a black dress with a full skirt, a thin gold belt tied loosely round her waist. Round her neck is a broad gold ruff, and a pale cream scarf or blouse shows under her chin, possibly under a v-shaped neckline that may be trimmed with lace. Elaborately gathered or slashed black elbow-length sleeves are just visible over puffed or gathered white, cream and gold frills. The sofa has a curving S-shaped back; in the background are dark khaki-brown curtains.

Sitter

The sitter has not been identified. It is possible, given the dramatic nature of the costume, that she was an actress.