Composition

The two prints reproduced above agree as to the general arrangement of the pose and dress, though the more highly detailed engraving suggests it was narrower in proportion to width than does the woodcut.

Technique

Sittings had been long and exhausting. On one occasion Whistler apologised:

'I want to say to you that I am really quite heartstricken to know that I fatigued you as I did today -

I felt an admiration and a fear as I looked at you superbly standing - so splendid and so plucky! - but I knew that my best apology was to work without words that you might be spared as much as possible - still I may reveal to you now my nervous anxiety and sympathy.' 1

When exhibited in the Winter Exhibition, Society of British Artists, London, 1886 (cat. no. 259) it was described in the catalogue as 'unfinished'.

However, Bernhard Sickert (1862-1932) described it as painted in 'delicate gradations' of 'white and ivory … in a broad and masterly style.' 2

Conservation History

According to the Pennells, the artist's sister-in-law Rosalind Birnie Philip (1873-1958) told the sitter that it was subsequently destroyed. 3

Frame

Unknown.