The Sisters 1894

James Abbott McNeill Whistler created this sketch, called “The Sisters,” with graphite. In the late 19th century, women’s lives were being renegotiated in the face of the suffragette movement, and there was more visibility in women’s relationships. Here, we have two women, presumably sisters, in a domestic space. One sister is standing while the other reclines. The intimacy of their interaction is palpable despite the distance. The standing figure seems to be looking down at the reclining woman. The loose rendering of the sketch softens the figures and provides an ephemeral quality. The use of the title "The Sisters" suggests a deep connection, offering an intimate glimpse into their world. Whistler was known for capturing subtle emotions, and here the sketch resonates with a quiet intensity, inviting the viewer to contemplate the complexities of female relationships within the confines of their time. It is a moving piece, capturing a fleeting moment of connection.