Drouet

1863

"The White Girl" at the Salon des Refusés

In 1863 the painting, rejected by the Royal Academy, was shown at the Salon des Refusés in Paris and gained wide renown, despite the scandal surrounding Manet's "Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe."

1866

Voyage to Valparaíso

In 1866 Whistler set off for Valparaíso, Chile, professing political motives for the journey. There he painted his first three nocturnal harbour scenes — "moonlight" paintings that he later called "nocturnes."

1874

First Solo Exhibition

In 1874 Whistler organized his first solo exhibition, with gallery decor unusual for the time, styled in harmony with the paintings in accordance with his theories of art.

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.