James A. M. Whistler, Nocturne, etching and drypoint, 1879-80. Estimate: $80,000 to $120,000.
From 1855 to 1897, James A. M. Whistler produced more than 180 lithographs, which are considered among the most significant lithographic oeuvres of the late 19th century. On October 27th, Swann will conduct an auction devoted to the artist, Whistler and His Influence, which features 80 rare and important etchings and drypoints by the renowned printmaker. Several of the Whistler etchings in this sale have not appeared at auction in recent years—many, including Nocturne, 1879-80, display his extremely rare and highly prized butterfly signature.
The auction also offers prints by European and American artists working at the end of the 19th century who were influenced by Whistler. These include Impressionists Camille Pissarro and Childe Hassam, as well as Édouard Manet, James Tissot and Francis Seymour Haden.
Additionally, Swann will host a lecture on October 26th, Whistler and the Etching Revival, featuring Robert H. Getscher, author of The Stamp of Whistler.
Labels: 19th-century prints, Childe Hassam, Edouard Manet, Francis Seymour Haden, James A. M. Whistler, James Tissot, Pissarro, Robert H. Getscher, Todd Weyman
