Longshoremen
James Abbott McNeill Whistler
Description
Subject Matter:
In keeping with Whistler's interests in the docks and establishments along the Thames in London, this scene of men and the woman and child at the right gave the artist the opportunity to explore working class labor in London, recalling some of the character studies that Rembrandt executed in the neighborhoods of Amsterdam.
Physical Description:
Groups of figures, mostly men, are seated in an interior gathered around tables. In most cases they lean against the tables, principally the table at the back of the room that is parallel to the picture plane, looking away from the viewer. The exception is the man at the center of the composition, leaning on the table and wearing a cap and coat, who looks at the viewer as he raises his right hand towards his face. At the right are seated a woman and infant.
Usage Rights:
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