Reading

1877

Libel Suit Against Ruskin

In 1877 Whistler sued the critic John Ruskin, who had condemned his "Nocturne in Black and Gold: The Falling Rocket," demanding 1,000 pounds in damages. Because of the criticism, his works fell out of favour.

25 – 26 November 1878

The Trial of Whistler v. Ruskin

On 25–26 November 1878 the suit was heard in the High Court. The jury returned a verdict in Whistler's favour but awarded damages of one farthing, and costs were split between the parties.

8 May 1879

Bankruptcy

Legal costs and debts from the construction of the White House on Tite Street forced Whistler to declare bankruptcy on 8 May 1879; his collection, possessions, and house went to auction.

1879

Trip to Venice

After the trial, Whistler accepted a commission for twelve etchings and arrived in Venice in September 1879. The three-month trip stretched to fourteen months: over 50 etchings, nocturnes, and more than 100 pastels.

February 1885

The "Ten O'Clock" Lecture

In February 1885 Whistler delivered his "Ten O'Clock" lecture — the principal statement of his "art for art's sake" credo, opposed to the Victorian view of art's moral function.

1 June 1886

President of the Society of British Artists

On 1 June 1886 Whistler was elected president of the Society of British Artists; after his gift to Queen Victoria the Society received royal status. On 4 June 1888, following a rift with the Royal Academy, he was removed from the post and left the Society with 25 supporters.