Nocturne in Blue and Silver

James McNeill Whistler

Created:
Movement:
1880
Tonalism
key Notes:
Atmospheric luminosity, tonal harmony.
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Dimensions:
10 1/4 x 8 1/4 in. (26 x 21 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Master
New game
story of the work:

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Nocturne in Blue and Silver by James McNeill Whistler

Nocturne in Blue and Silver, created in 1880 by James McNeill Whistler, is an exemplary work of the artist's exploration of mood and atmosphere through the medium of oil on canvas. Whistler's use of a limited color palette and subtle tonal variations in this painting reflects his interest in the aesthetic movement, which emphasized beauty and visual harmony over narrative content. The work is part of Whistler's broader series of "Nocturnes," which sought to capture the ephemeral qualities of twilight and night scenes. Whistler's innovative approach to composition and color influenced the development of modern art, particularly in the realms of Impressionism and Symbolism. Born in 1834, Whistler was an American artist who spent much of his career in Europe, where he became a pivotal figure in the art world of the late 19th century. His emphasis on the harmony between art and music is evident in the titles of his works, which often reference musical terms, underscoring his belief in the interconnectedness of the arts.

Description of the work:

"Nocturne in Blue and Silver" by James McNeill Whistler, created in 1880, is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the artist's exploration of mood and atmosphere through a limited color palette and subtle tonal variations. The artwork reflects Whistler's interest in the aesthetic movement, focusing on the harmonious arrangement of color and form rather than detailed representation.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Harvard Art Museum

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Nocturne in Blue and Silver