The Figure

Throughout his career Whistler painted 'subjectless' pictures of young girls, women, mothers and children in various poses, often nude or in loose, flowing drapery. There was no story behind these paintings. They were just to be appreciated for their beauty and colour harmony. The women were rarely shown taking part in any activity but were usually self-absorbed and passive. Exotic or classical accessories often accompanied them to enhance their decorative appeal.

Whistler’s pupil Mortimer Menpes described how Whistler let his models move around the studio and he would capture any interesting movements in quick sketches. Sometimes he posed them in particular stances. One of the favourite poses that he had his models adopt was standing against a railing with their legs crossed, as in Annabel Lee and Ariel.