“Symphony in Grey: Early Morning, Thames,” painted around 1871 by James McNeill Whistler, is an oil on canvas landscape artwork measuring 67.5 by 45.7 centimeters. This piece is an example of the Tonalism art movement. The artwork features a subdued and misty depiction of the Thames River at the break of dawn.
The artwork employs a muted palette dominated by shades of grey and brown, effectively capturing the serene and tranquil ambiance of early morning. The composition is broad and horizontal, emphasizing the expanse of the river and the vast sky. The indistinct forms and blurred outlines of the distant buildings and boats create a dreamlike, atmospheric effect, typical of Whistler’s Tonalist style. Whistler’s masterful use of soft, blended brushstrokes conveys a sense of calm and introspection, inviting the viewer to contemplate the peacefulness and solitude of the dawn over the Thames.
