Peacock Room

Peacock Room
James McNeill Whistler (American, 1834-1903)
Freer Gallery of Art
interior decorative mural art

Most notably known for his paintings, though he was a prolific in prints as well, Whistler also took his hand at interior decoration. Originally asked to recommend colors for the dining room of Frederick R. Leyland, Whistler took the room as his own painting peacock feathers on the wall and adding golden peacocks to the shutters. The room was originally design to hold Leyland's collection of blue and white porcelain. Purchased by Charles Lang Freer, the room was reassembled in his mansion later to be moved to the Freer Gallery of Art. (Description via the Freer Gallery of Art http://www.asia.si.edu/exhibitions/current/peacock.htm#) A painting by Whistler adorns the mantlepiece. (La Princesse du pays de la porcelaine, 1863-64, by James McNeill Whistler (American, 1834-1903). Oil on canvas, 199.9 x 116.1 cm. Gift of Charles Lang Freer, F1903.91)