Nocturne, from First Venice Set

As a printmaker, Whistler is most highly acclaimed for Venice, a Series of Twelve Etchings, known as the First Venice Set, the most atmospheric and painterly of his prints and an important 1879 project that immediately followed his bankruptcy. He was commissioned by the Fine Art Society in London to spend three months in the city executing a suite of twelve etchings. He stayed longer and executed more than fifty, among which Nocturne is considered the finest and most atmospheric. Upon publication, Nocturne caused a sensation, led by the Daily News and St. James' Gazette that noted Whistler's 'artistic printing', where the etched line was manipulated and the use of surface ink tone to produce variations in color and atmosphere. This novel approach was related to the renewed interest in monotype printmaking in the 1860s and 70s.

The present impression is exceptionally fine, comprised of selective vertical wiping, which radiates from the horizon and extends into the sky and water. To suggest a certain time of day Whistler left little ink above and below the horizon thereby leaving a particularly strong glow. Additionally the platemark (and sheet edges where Whistler trimmed many of his prints) holds inks in select places, part of the spontaneous and painterly effects Whistler sought to achieve during the wiping of the plate.