Limehouse

James McNeill Whistler

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a scene from the water looking toward buildings and ships along the riverbank. The horizon is slightly above the center, where the structures and ships meet the sky. The horizon features tall ships with masts and rigging in faded detail. The water has gentle, sweeping lines, creating a sense of movement. The palette is monochromatic with shades of gray and black, adding a dramatic atmosphere. Closest to the viewer, a small rowboat with two figures is present. In the distance, buildings and ships are depicted in a blurred and impressionistic style, emphasizing depth and vastness.