This rare etching (possibly unique) is accompanied by a handwritten note from Lavery stating that it is his only print. It is likely he made it in 1883 following encouragement from an artist who made prints, perhaps James Abbott McNeill Whistler who Lavery was close to. Although a notoriously difficult man, Whistler attracted a good number of pupils and followers both amateur and professional. Lavery was a pall-bearer at Whistler's funeral, which had few mourners. Although quite tentative in terms of technique, the composition is well-realised and it is signed prominently lower left (in graphite): J. LAVERY 1883. It shows the painter experimenting with an unfamilar medium, using line to create reflections and a sense of light and shadow. It is close compositionally to Return from the Market (NGI 2011.11), and may be helpful in clarifying the date of that painting. It is in reasonable condition, although like many works on paper of this date it shows evidence of foxing.
This rare etching (possibly unique) is accompanied by a handwritten note from Lavery stating that it is his only print. It is likely he made it in 1883 following encouragement from an artist who made prints, perhaps James Abbott McNeill Whistler who Lavery was close to. Although a notoriously difficult man, Whistler attracted a good number of pupils and followers both amateur and professional. Lavery was a pall-bearer at Whistler's funeral, which had few mourners. Although quite tentative in terms of technique, the composition is well-realised and it is signed prominently lower left (in graphite): J. LAVERY 1883. It shows the painter experimenting with an unfamilar medium, using line to create reflections and a sense of light and shadow. It is close compositionally to Return from the Market (NGI 2011.11), and may be helpful in clarifying the date of that painting. It is in reasonable condition, although like many works on paper of this date it shows evidence of foxing.