Convalescent (aka Petit Dejeuner; note in opal) 1884

James Abbott McNeill Whistler's 1884 watercolor "Convalescent" (aka "Petit Dejeuner") depicts a woman resting in bed, wrapped in a white blanket and reading a book. The composition is characterized by soft, muted tones and subtle brushstrokes, creating an atmosphere of quiet contemplation. The artwork exemplifies Whistler's signature style, known as "art for art's sake," where the beauty of the visual elements takes precedence over narrative or symbolism. This intimate portrait of a woman in repose offers a glimpse into the artist's fascination with capturing fleeting moments and the quietude of everyday life.