Nocturne in Black and Gold - The Falling Rocket
This particular painting within Whistler’s nocturne series spurred the debate on the role of art and critic within modern art. Whistler portrays fireworks over the river, substituting narrative for atmosphere, creating a dark whimsical mood through a restricted palette. The artwork itself is a prime ‘art for art’s sake’ example, as it doesn’t contain a clear narrative on the surface. The work became the epitome of the Aesthetic movement, one that focused on the visual stimulation of art rather than a narrative. The idea is that the painting is independent from any social or political themes. Of course, this idea rejected any traditional values established in the fine art society of the time.
The Falling Rocket became very controversial when it was revealed to the public, even more so when famous critic John Ruskin (1819-1900) released his opinion on it in his published letters, Fors Clavigera, in 1877. This review was incredibly negative. Ruskin criticized the painting on its limited effort, its role in capitalist art, and stated that it was only “flinging a pot of paint in the public’s face.” This resulted in Whistler suing Ruskin for libel.
The Ruskin vs Whistler trial lasted for only two days, yet represented something much bigger than the feelings of a critic and an artist. The trial itself was quite the disaster for Whistler, as at one point the painting was brought out and presented upside-down. However, Whistler won the case, yet both men were hit hard. Regardless of his win, Whistler was awarded just one farthing in damages, and the cost of the court case plunged him even further into debt. Ruskin’s reputation as a critic and trusted voice within Victorian society was damaged.
Nocturne in Black and Gold - The Falling Rocket, 1875, by James Abbott McNeill Whistler (1834-1903)
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