Artwork preview

Little Dordrecht

James McNeill Whistler

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a busy harbor scene with various figures and objects sketched intricately across the composition. The point of view is slightly elevated, allowing a view of the activity on the docks and the boats in the water. The horizon is in the upper third of the image with ship masts piercing the sky. The line work appears delicate and linear, possibly created through an etching technique. The color scheme consists mainly of sepia tones. Various figures are engaged in activities near wheelbarrow-like objects, with ships anchored in the waterway beyond. Thin lines in the distance suggest land or clouds against the sky.

Artwork Details

Date
1884
Medium
etching in dark brown on laid paper
Dimensions
4602 × 3365 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original