Nocturne: Blue and Gold - Old Battersea Bridge

James Abbott McNeill Whistler (1834 - 1903)

Tate Collection

circa 1872 - 1875

The work depicts the River Thames and Battersea Bridge by moonlight with Albert Bridge in the background, still under construction. This painting was the Art Fund's first major acquisition and marks England's official acceptance of Whistler. It was cited as evidence in the libel action Whistler brought against Ruskin in 1878. It is ironic that this work was supported by the Art Fund since Whistler stipulated in his will that none of the pictures remaining in his studio 'should ever find a place in an English Gallery'.

• Medium: oil on canvas
• Dimensions: 68.3 x 51.2cm
• Art Fund Grant: £2000 ( Total: £2,000)
• ArtFunded in: 1905
• Vendor: R H C Harrison

Add your comments about this artwork Hide this form

Have your say