Melon-Shop, Hounsditch

James McNeill Whistler

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a sketch with multiple figures inside a room and two seated individuals outside beneath a window. The people inside are facing forward, appearing to be behind a counter or desk with various items around them. Their facial features are somewhat indistinct and they have short, roughly styled hair. The figures outside are seated side by side, showing upper body details and similar facial features with simple, tidy hairstyles. They wear clothing that suggests turn-of-the-century fashion. There is no jewelry or objects held by the figures. The background is rendered with a textured, cross-hatched style, depicting shelves and creating a sense of depth in the enclosed environment.