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Which James McNeill Whistler paintings show his interest in Japanese art?

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James McNeill Whistler was well-known for his fascination with Japanese art, which significantly influenced his aesthetic style. Several of his paintings explicitly demonstrate this interest:1

  • The Princess from the Land of Porcelain (1863–65): A key work reflecting his engagement with Japanese themes.1
  • Caprice in Purple and Gold: The Golden Screen (1864): This painting highlights his focus on the picturesque elements of the Japanese style.1
  • Symphony in Grey and Green: The Ocean (1866): While inspired by a trip to Chile, this work features an Eastern mood and a signature painted in an Eastern fashion.1
  • Nocturne: Blue and Gold—Old Battersea Bridge (c. 1872–75): This work represents the finest expression of his Japanese-influenced style.1

Additionally, Whistler’s technique for painting his nocturnes—using liquid paint applied in fast, sweeping brushstrokes—was inspired by the manner of Japanese calligraphy. His broader interest in East Asian art was also complemented by an appreciation for Tanagra figurines, with both influences appearing in his Six Projects series.1