James McNeill Whistler

La Vieille aux Loques (The Rag Gatherer)

Date 1858
Materials Etching - dark brown ink on wove paper
Dimensions 20.8 cm x 14.6 cm
Marks Signed on the plate at the lower right: "Whistler"; inscribed on plate at lower right: "Imp. Delatre. Rue St. Jacques 171"
Further information GLAHA 46706.
Edward G. Kennedy, The Etched Work of Whistler, New York, The Grolier Club, 1910 (21, 2nd of 3 states).

Note This etching forms part of a series known as the ‘French Set’. It shows an old woman seated in a doorway sorting rags for papermaking. Whistler liked the device of a doorway or window through which ordinary people could be seen absorbed in their daily activities. Notice the look of concentration on the old woman’s face as she bends over her task. In the background we can see details of her home, including cupboards, shelves, a wine bottle, jug, basket and jars. Piles of rags lie on the floor ready to be sorted according to colour and fabric. Look how Whistler used the direction, number and density of the lines to suggest depth. You can see this particularly where the ceiling and walls meet in the far corner. Whistler enjoyed playing with contrasts between the light exterior and dark interior space. See how the woman appears to be silhouetted against the darkness.

Related works GLAHA 46707.