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Speke Hall, No.1

1870/1879
Etching and drypoint on laid paper
K.96 (5/10)
Purchased, 1967
Hunterian Art Gallery, GLAHA 46768

Whistler started this etching when visiting the Liverpool ship owner, F.R. Leyland, at Speke Hall in 1870. This impression - one of about 20 - dates from 1879. The old laid paper has an 'Arms of Amsterdam' watermark, and a Latin inscription on the verso. The figure, drawn in drypoint, was radically altered in this late state, to reflect changes in fashionable dress. Curving strokes suggest the glossy gown, with its close-fitting bodice, skirt and swirling train.