Goodbye, on the Mersey 1880

James Tissot painted this image in watercolor and gouache, using deft brushwork to capture a moment of farewell. It depicts a scene of departure, but also alludes to the enormous industry of maritime transportation. Look at the wooden deck, the painted metal surfaces of the ship, and the mass-produced textiles. Each of these things reflects the great acceleration of trade and production in the late nineteenth century. Even the clothing of the figures reflects industrialization; the tailored coats and mass-produced hats speak to the rise of consumer culture. Tissot’s fluid technique allows him to evoke the fleeting emotions of the scene, while also reminding us of the material conditions that made such departures possible. This image is more than just a sentimental snapshot. It’s a reminder that even the most personal moments are shaped by larger economic and social forces. By attending to the materials and making of this image, we can gain a richer understanding of its meaning, and the world that it reflects.