James Abbott McNeill Whistler. 1834-1903.
Billingsgate. 1859. Etching. Kennedy 47.viii. 57/8 x8 3/4 (sheet 8 5/16 x 10 1/16). A rich impression printed on cream laid paper with a partial fleur de lys countermark. A few circular pressure marks in the image and in the top margin, consistent with the circular addtions to the sky in the final state. Signed in the plate. $1,750.
For many centuries Billingsgate was the main wharf for the mooring of fishing vessels and landing their cargoes. Corn, malt, salt and fish were landed as early as the 13th century. In 1699 an Act of Parliament was passed making it "a free and open market for all sorts of fish whatsoever". Until the 19th century, fish was sold from stalls and sheds around the dock at Billingsgate. As trade increased, the first purpose-built Billingsgate Market building was built on Lower Thames Street in 1850. Billingsgate is associated with the famous London fish market.
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