Study

James McNeill Whistler

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a full-length figure of a woman standing in profile view, turned slightly to the right. Her posture is relaxed, with her right arm bent and hand resting on a ledge or rail, and her left arm extended, lightly grasping a vertical structure. Her facial features are depicted with delicate lines, capturing a serene expression, and her short hair appears to be tucked neatly under a headscarf or wrap that covers her head. She is dressed in a flowing, draped garment with crossing lines over the chest, suggesting a classical style. The background is simple and unadorned, focusing attention on the figure.