Mother of Pearl and Silver: The Andalusian sister Rosalind Birnie Philip subsequently acted as secretary to Whistler and was appointed Whistler's executrix at his death. Whistler painted a number of full-length portraits of Ethel, including "Mother of Pearl and Silver: The Andalusian" and the watercolour "Rose and Silver: Portrait of Mrs Whibley"; and other sketches and etchings of her titled as Miss Ethel Philip or Mrs Whibley. Whistler commenced work on "The Andalusian" in London in 1888, the year Whistler married Beatrix, with the painting being completed in Paris in 1900. Mother of Pearl and Silver: The Andalusian Mother of Pearl and Silver: The Andalusian is a
Pearl extensive and successful use of the Biwa Pearl Mussel is reflected in the name "Biwa pearls", a phrase which was at one time nearly synonymous with freshwater pearls in general. Since the time of peak production in 1971, when Biwa pearl farmers produced six tons of cultured pearls, pollution has caused the virtual extinction of the industry. Japanese pearl farmers recently cultured a hybrid pearl mussel – a cross between Biwa Pearl Mussels and a closely related species from China, "Hyriopsis cumingi", in Lake Kasumigaura. This industry has also nearly ceased production, due to pollution. Japanese pearl producers also invested