Artwork preview

Temple

James McNeill Whistler

National Gallery of Art

The image is an etching depicting a street scene viewed from an eye-level perspective. The horizon is not distinct, but the buildings suggest a skyline that flattens to the left. The etching is executed in a simple, sketch-like style with light lines and minimal shading. The lines capture the architectural details and surroundings with spontaneity and elegance. In the foreground, there is a horse-drawn cart next to a street lamp, and beyond are buildings with chimneys and windows, as well as some bare trees. The overall color palette is monochrome.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1880/1881
Medium
etching on laid paper
Dimensions
4579 × 3142 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette