Whistler's House

Home to perhaps the largest number of Blue Plaques in one street

Location: 96 Cheyne Walk, Chelsea, London, SW3

Description: This is the house where artist James McNeil Whistler lived, although he lived at several other houses on this street too.

It was here that Whistler gave a housewarming attended by many friends including the Rossetti's. He had the drawing/dining room painted that morning in a flesh colour, but it hadnt dried and many guests left with most of it on their clothes.

Carlyle sat for his famous portrait here. Whistler requestd just 3 sittings, but Carlyle could not sit still for very long and many more were required before Carlyle said Whistler was 'the most absurd creature on the face of the earth'.

Whistler left Chelsea twice but returned and spent his final days at number 74 Cheyne Walk.

Themes: Art Art Theme