Provenance

• 1878/1879: it is not known how Whistler retained or regained possession of this portrait at the time of his bankruptcy, or afterwards;
• 1903: in Whistler's studio on his death and bequeathed to Whistler's ward and executrix, Rosalind Birnie Philip (1873-1958);
• 1935: given by Miss R. Birnie Philip to the University of Glasgow.

Paintings in Whistler's studio at the time of his bankruptcy were supposed to be sold unless they were unfinished or destroyed. This portrait must somehow have been concealed, since obviously Mrs Jopling had no idea what had happened to it. It may have been among rolled-up canvases saved by his brother or other friends, and returned to Whistler much later.

Exhibitions

It was not exhibited in Whistler's life time.

Under the terms of Miss R. Birnie Philip's gift to the University of Glasgow, it is not lendable.