Self Portrait
James Abbott McNeill Whistler
(July 11, 1834 - July 17, 1903)
James Abbott McNeill Whistler (July 11, 1834 - July 17, 1903) was an American-born, British-based artist. Averse to sentimentality and moral allusion in painting, he was a leading proponent of the credo "art for art's sake". His famous signature for his paintings was in the shape of a stylized butterfly possessing a long stinger for a tail.
The symbol was apt, for it combined both aspects of his personality-his art was characterized by a subtle delicacy, while his public persona was combative. Finding a parallel between painting and music, Whistler titled many of his paintings "arrangements", "harmonies", and "nocturnes", emphasizing the primacy of tonal harmony.
His most famous painting is the iconic Whistler's Mother, the revered and oft parodied portrait of motherhood. A wit, dandy, and shameless self-promoter, Whistler influenced the art world and the broader culture of his time with his artistic theories and his friendships with leading artists and writers.
Nude Girl with a Bowl
Arrangement in Grey and Black- Portrait of the Artist's Mother 1871
The Greek Slave Girl (or Variations in Violet and Rose)
Nocturne in Black and Gold, The Falling Rocket
Symphony in White Number 2- The Little White Girl 1864
Nocturne in Black and Gold- The Falling Rocket 1875
Green and Violet, Portrait of Mrs. Walter Sickert
Head of an Old Man Smoking
Roger Rescuing Angelique (after Ingres)
Symphony in White, No. 3
Whistler in his Studio
The Beach at Selsey Bill