James Abbott McNeill Whistler. 1834-1903.
The 'Adam and Eve', Old Chelsea.1879. Etching. Kennedy 175.ii. 6 15/16 x 11 7/8 (sheet 9 1/4 x 14 1/2). Illustrated: Illustrated: Beall, American Prints in the Library of Congress; Salaman, The Great Painter-Etchers from Rembrandt to Whistler.; Modern Masters of Etching. A rich impression with plate tone, printed on fine laid paper. Signed with the butterfly in the plate. $3,500.
This etching is extremely significant in the development of Whistler's style. It reflects a transition from the Thames set to the atmospheric treatment of light in the Venice set.
The image shows the old riverside inn, The Adam and Eve. In th early 1870's, it had been demolished to make way for the construction of the Chelsea Embankment. According to Katherine Lochnan, The Etchings of James McNeill Whistler, (pp. 177-78)it is thought that Whistler based the etching on an earlier photograph. The tower in the left background is that of Old Chelsea Church, where Whistler's funeral services were held.
For more information or to be placed on the email list, send e-mail to Jane Allinson (allinson@earthlink.net) or fax (860)429-2825./center>