The Bead-Stringers
James McNeill Whistler (1834-1903), The Bead-Stringers, etching, 1879-80, signed on the tab with the butterfly and inscribed “imp”. Reference: Kennedy 198, eighth state (of 8). In excellent condition, trimmed on the platemark by the artist all around except for the tab, printed on laid paper. From the “Set of Twenty-Six Etchings”, the Second Venice Set. From the edition of 30 (an additional 12 were planned for certain titles including The Bead-Stringers. 9 x 6 inches.
A very fine impression, with a subtle plate tone overall, selectively wiped so that the bottom of the plate is slightly darker.
The Bead-Stringers is one of only two subjects from Whistler’s Venice stay for which a drawing exists; the view is that of the Calle de le Mende, Dorsoduro, which opens through the sottoportico, onto the Fondamenta Ospedaleto.