In Arrangement in Black; Girl Reading, a young girl is depicted reading in a dimly lit setting. The painting features a palette dominated by dark tones, with subtle highlights illuminating the girl's face and book. She is seated, absorbed in her reading, creating a sense of intimacy and focus.

The background is intentionally muted, allowing the viewer's attention to rest on the figure of the girl. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for rich color and texture. Whistler's technique includes smooth brushwork and a careful balance of light and shadow, enhancing the mood of the scene. The dimensions are approximately 76.2 x 61 cm, making it a relatively modest-sized work.

The use of black in the title reflects Whistler's interest in tonal harmony and composition. James Abbott McNeill Whistler was an American artist known for his innovative approach to color and composition. This work, created in the 1880s, is part of his exploration of the relationship between color and form. An interesting fact about this painting is that it reflects Whistler's fascination with the theme of women and reading, a subject he revisited in several works.

The painting is currently housed in the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, where it continues to be appreciated for its quiet beauty.