Quote by James Mcneill Whistler

A group from Glasgow sought in 1891 to purchase his portrait of Thomas Carlyle was shocked that Whistler's price was 1000 guineas. A spokesman countered that the portrait was not even life size. Whistler replied, But, you know, few men are life size.

A group from Glasgow sought in 1891 to purchase his portrait

Summary

This quote by James McNeill Whistler addresses the outrage expressed by a group from Glasgow who were interested in purchasing Whistler's portrait of Thomas Carlyle. The group found the price of 1000 guineas to be excessive, particularly since the portrait was not even life size. Whistler responded with the witticism that few men are truly life size, suggesting that capturing the essence and character of an individual goes beyond mere physical proportions. He subtly emphasizes the importance of artistry in capturing the true essence of a person rather than focusing solely on accuracy in dimensions.

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By James Mcneill Whistler

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