Nocturne in Black and Gold – The Falling Rocket
From The Art and Popular Culture Encyclopedia
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Nocturne in Black and Gold: The Falling Rocket is a 1874 painting by James McNeill Whistler. The painting is an "artistic impression" based on an actual scene of fireworks (or "rockets") exploding over London’s Cremone Gardens at night. At the time, the public considered the fleeting display a questionable subject for a painting, especially since the asking price was 200 guineas.
On July 2 1877, John Ruskin wrote in Fors Clavigera:
- "For Mr. Whistler's own sake, no less than for the protection of the purchaser, Sir Coutts Lindsay [founder of the Grosvenor Gallery] ought not to have admitted works into the gallery in which the ill-educated conceit of the artist so nearly approached the aspect of willful imposture. I have seen, and heard, much of Cockney impudence before now; but never expected to hear a coxcomb ask two hundred guineas for flinging a pot of paint in the public's face"
In November, 1878, Whistler sued Ruskin.
Though arguing for one thousand pounds plus costs, Whistler won a mere farthing in nominal damages. The cost of the case, together with huge debts from building his residence, "The White House" in Tite Street, Chelsea, (designed with E. W. Godwin, 1877–8) bankrupted him.
Debussy's nocturnes were inspired by Whistler's paintings. Several other artists followed suit.
In the 21st century, the painting is regarded, along with Rain, Steam and Speed - The Great Western Railway by William Turner as a precursor to Impressionism and abstract art.
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