Home > Arts > Artists > W > James Abbott McNeill Whistler
The Unsafe Tenement. One of the Twelve Etchings from Nature. (The French Set), 1858
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
The Unsafe Tenement. One of the Twelve Etchings from Nature. (The French Set), 1858
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 23863785
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Danger Dangerous Destitute Disrepair Etching On Paper Freer Gallery Of Art Gilded Age Housing J Mcneill Whistler Ja Mcneill Whistler James A Mcneill Whistler James Abbot Mcneill Whistler James Abbott Mcneill Whistler James Mcneil Whistler James Mcneill Whistler Peril Tenement Timber Framed Whistler J Mcneill Whistler James A Mcneill Whistler James Abbott Mcneill Whistler James Mcneill
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Birds
> Passerines
> Whistlers
> Related Images
> Architecture
> Country
> America
> Architecture
> Country
> France
> Arts
> Artists
> James Whistler
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> James Abbott McNeill Whistler
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> James McNeill Whistler
> North America
> United States of America
> Related Images
The Unsafe Tenement - A Glimpse into the Harsh Realities of 19th Century America
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This black and white etching, created by James Abbott McNeill Whistler in 1858, offers a poignant snapshot of life during the Gilded Age. Titled "The Unsafe Tenement" it is one of twelve etchings from Whistler's renowned French Set. In this thought-provoking artwork, Whistler masterfully captures the dilapidated state of a destitute tenement building. The crumbling exterior stands as a metaphor for the social issues that plagued American society at the time. Through his skilled use of lines and shading, Whistler conveys a sense of danger and disrepair that permeates every corner of this architectural relic. Amidst this bleak backdrop, we see two young girls standing outside the tenement. Their presence serves to highlight not only their vulnerability but also raises questions about access to education and opportunities for children growing up in such dire circumstances. Whistler's work reminds us that art can be both aesthetically pleasing and socially conscious. By shedding light on these forgotten corners of society, he challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about poverty, inequality, and neglect. Displayed at the Freer Gallery of Art within the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D. C. , this print continues to serve as an important historical document—a reminder that even amidst progress and prosperity, there are those who remain marginalized.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.