Arrangement in Flesh Color and Brown: Portrait of Arthur Jerome Eddy

James McNeill Whistler

Created:
Movement:
1894
Tonalism
key Notes:
Subdued palette; Whistlerian composition
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Dimensions:
210.7 × 93.3 cm (82 15/16 × 36 3/4 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

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Arrangement in Flesh Color and Brown: Portrait of Arthur Jerome Eddy

Artist: James McNeill Whistler

Year: 1894

Medium: Oil on canvas

Artistic and Historical Impact

The painting "Arrangement in Flesh Color and Brown: Portrait of Arthur Jerome Eddy" exemplifies Whistler's commitment to tonal harmony and aesthetic arrangement, a hallmark of his mature style. Whistler's approach to portraiture often emphasized mood and color over strict realism, aligning with his broader artistic philosophy that art should prioritize beauty and composition. This work is significant as it captures Arthur Jerome Eddy, a prominent art collector and advocate of modern art, reflecting the interconnectedness of artists and patrons during this period. Whistler's influence extended beyond his paintings; he was a pivotal figure in the Aesthetic Movement, which sought to elevate the importance of beauty and art for art's sake. His innovative techniques and theories on color and composition have left a lasting impact on both contemporaries and future generations of artists.

Biographical Context

James McNeill Whistler (1834–1903) was an American-born artist who spent much of his career in Europe, particularly in London and Paris. Known for his distinctive style and controversial personality, Whistler was a key figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. His famous legal battle with art critic John Ruskin over the painting "Nocturne in Black and Gold" highlighted his belief in the autonomy of the artist and the subjective nature of art criticism. Whistler's legacy is marked by his contributions to the Aesthetic Movement and his influence on the development of modern art.

Description of the work:

Arrangement in Flesh Color and Brown: Portrait of Arthur Jerome Eddy

Created in 1894 by James McNeill Whistler, this oil on canvas painting exemplifies Whistler's characteristic style of tonal harmony and subtle color palette. The portrait depicts Arthur Jerome Eddy, an influential art collector and critic, and is noted for its refined use of flesh tones and muted browns, emphasizing Whistler's aesthetic focus on mood and composition over detailed realism.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Arrangement in Flesh Color and Brown: Portrait of Arthur Jerome Eddy