The artwork, titled “Harper Pennington,” was created by James McNeill Whistler between 1880 and 1882. Rendered in chalk, the piece measures 21.4 x 13.8 cm and belongs to the Impressionism art movement. It is a portrait, capturing the likeness and demeanor of the subject with Whistler’s characteristic delicate and expressive technique.
The artwork depicts a gentleman standing in a casual yet poised posture. He is dressed in a sophisticated blue jacket, paired with dark trousers and a hat, evoking the fashion of the late 19th century. The use of chalk imparts a soft texture, accentuating the graceful lines and subtle shading that Whistler employs to convey the contours and features of the figure. The background is minimally detailed, allowing the viewer to focus on the subject’s attire and stance. This illustrative approach reflects Whistler’s masterful blending of subtlety and expressiveness, hallmark elements of the Impressionist movement.
