Lord Wolseley

"Lord Wolseley", an 1877 print by James Abbott McNeill Whistler, presents a striking portrait of its subject. Currently housed in the National Gallery of Art, this piece measures 0.254 meters by 0.178 meters and showcases Whistler's mastery of etching. The artwork focuses on Lord Wolseley from the chest up, capturing him in a moment of contemplation. His body faces right, while his head is turned in profile to the left, creating a sense of intrigue and drawing the viewer's eye. nn Whistler's use of shading is particularly noteworthy. The background is heavily worked with lines, especially around Lord Wolseley's head and shoulders, which accentuates his features and adds a sense of depth. In contrast, the lower half of the print is significantly lighter, with only a few visible lines, further emphasizing the subject's presence. This interplay of light and shadow creates a dramatic effect, highlighting Lord Wolseley's strong features and commanding presence.