#4: Whistler’s Mother (James McNeill Whistler)
Formally titled Arrangement in Grey and Black No. 1 from 1871, this famous painting happened completely by accident. Whistler’s regular model missed the appointment, so his 67-year-old mother, Anna, offered to help. She tried to stand up at first, but the poor woman got too tired. Her son had her sit down sideways instead, creating that famous profile we all recognize today.
