Portrait of Whistler 1881

Carlo Pellegrini etched this image of Whistler, sometime in the late 19th century, capturing the artist with his signature monocle, hands in the pockets of a long coat, topped by a curious hat. The print is signed 'Ape.', Pellegrini's signature when drawing caricatures for the magazine 'Vanity Fair'. The figure's long coat and unusual top hat, combined with the signature, turn Whistler into a recognizable character for the contemporary viewer. The artist is transformed into a type, a figure that the public can easily recognize and categorize. This act of turning an individual into a symbol reminds us of carnival traditions, where masks and costumes are employed to both conceal and reveal aspects of identity, allowing for a temporary suspension of social norms and inviting critical reflection. Note how Whistler’s distinct style and persona are playfully captured, transforming him into a figure embodying both individuality and a shared cultural image. Pellegrini is not simply drawing a portrait, he is also creating a lasting symbol.