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Dry-Dock, Southampton

James McNeill Whistler

National Gallery of Art

The image is viewed from a low vantage point, with the water's edge closest to us forming the bottom of the composition. In the distance, the horizon line is occupied by an arrangement of simple structures, possibly buildings along a waterfront, with a prominent ship to the right. The brushstrokes and etching lines are delicate and detailed, sketching out forms with a light touch. The color palette consists of a muted, sepia tone on aged paper. The sky above is lightly sketched with sparse cloud details, providing a subtle balance between the water and the horizon line.

Artwork Details

Date
1887
Medium
etching and drypoint on laid paper
Dimensions
5247 × 2061 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette