Inconsequences
James Whistler is of American extraction, and studied painting in France. As a student he was capricious and irregular, and did not leave the impression amongst his fellow-pupils that his future would be in any way distinguished... his artistic education seems to have been mainly acquired by private The “book on etching.” and independent study....
Mr. Whistler seems to be aware that etchings are usually sought as much for their rarity as their excellence, and to have determined that his own plates shall be rare already.
[20]”If beauty were the only province of art, neither painters nor etchers would find anything to occupy them in the foul stream that washes the London wharfs”—P. G. HAMERTON, Etching and Etchers.
I have been told that, if application is made by letter to Mr. Whistler for a set of his etchings, he may, perhaps, if he chooses to answer the letter, do the applicant the favour to let him have a copy for about the price of a good horse....
Whistler’s etchings are not generally remarkable for poetical feeling....
P. G. HAMERTON,[20]
Etching and Etchers.