Artwork preview

Sketches on the Coast Survey Plate

James McNeill Whistler

National Gallery of Art

The artwork depicts a wide, horizontal landscape. The horizon is located about one-third from the top of the image, defined by a long, narrow landmass with various hills. Small structures or tree tops are sporadically placed along the horizon. The detailed rendering is done in ink or etching, with precise lines indicating topography and features. The color palette is monochromatic, with varying shades of sepia against an off-white or beige background. In the upper left, three figures are sketched, with additional scattered sketches of individuals throughout the upper third of the composition.

Artwork Details

Date
1854/1855
Medium
etching on laid paper
Dimensions
5243 × 2787 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette