The artwork, titled “Black Lion Wharf,” was crafted by James McNeill Whistler in 1859. It belongs to the Realism art movement and is categorized under the genre of sketch and study. The dimensions of the artwork are 22.6 by 15.2 centimeters.
The artwork presents a bustling riverside scene, possibly a wharf, imbued with life and activity. A myriad of boats occupy the water, tethered to the dock or manned by individuals. The backdrop features an array of buildings, some of which are marked by signs such as “BLACK LION WHARF” and “G.L. ASLY-COLE WINE & SPIRIT COMPANY.” The fine, detailed strokes bring out the architectural elements of the buildings and the rigging of the ships, reflecting a realistic depiction of the environment. In the foreground, a man leans on a large wooden beam, exuding a sense of relaxation amidst the otherwise dynamic setting. The level of detail in the sketch and the careful portrayal of different textures create a vivid impression of life at the wharf during the period.
