System Number: 07892
Date: 27 July 1891
Author: JW
Place: London
Recipient: James Nicol Dunn[1]
Place: [London]
Repository: Library of Congress
Call Number: Manuscript Division, Pennell-Whistler Collection, PWC 1/29/1
Document Type: ALdS[2]
To
The Editor "Morning Post"
Sir:
May I request that you allow me to make known through your influential paper, the fact that the large canvas[3], now shown as a completed work painting of mine, at Messrs Dowdeswells[4] in Bond Street, representing three draped figures in a conservatory, is a work, barely begun long ago barely begun, and thrown aside for destruction.
I think it not only just to myself to make this statement, but right that the public should be warned against the possible purchase of a picture, in no way representative, and, in its actual state, absolutely worthless.
I am, Sir
Your obt. servt
J. McNeill Whistler
Chelsea
July 27. 1891.
This document is protected by copyright.
Notes:
1. James Nicol Dunn
James Nicol Dunn (1856-1919), editor of the Morning Post from 1897-1905 [more].
2. ALdS
When published, a line was added from the second paragraph of #05842: 'Also I am in no way responsible for the taste of the frame with its astonishments of plush! and varied gildings.' See also the press-cutting version of this letter at #13566. A visiting card, #13576, was attached to this letter.
3. canvas
Pink and Grey: Three Figures (YMSM 89).
4. Messrs Dowdeswells
C. W. or one of his sons, Charles and Walter Dowdeswell, of Dowdeswell and Dowdeswell, art dealers.