Artwork preview

The Little Lagoon

James McNeill Whistler

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a waterway scene with a clear view across the water towards the horizon. The horizon with a distant strip of land, buildings, and ships is near the top third of the image. The brushstrokes are minimalistic, emphasizing simplicity and fluidity in the lines. The color palette is monochrome, primarily using shades of grey and cream, creating a calm visual impact. Two slender poles are in the water, with small boats and a larger vessel with two masts further away. The sky has a few wispy clouds, enhancing the serene ambiance of the image.

Artwork Details

Date
1879/1880
Medium
etching and drypoint in black on laid paper
Dimensions
2793 × 4000 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original