Artwork
Studies for "Gassed"
Studies for "Gassed" is a charcoal drawing by John Singer Sargent. It dates from 1918 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Studies for 'Gassed' is a charcoal drawing on laid paper by John Singer Sargent, comprising six sketches of a single figure's head and shoulders from diverse vantage points, all with eyes obscured by a blindfold.
Subject & Meaning
The subject's repeated depiction with a blindfold may symbolize loss of sight or insight, potentially relating to the larger work 'Gassed', which might explore themes of trauma or disorientation. The focus on varied expressions and angles underscores Sargent's interest in conveying complex human emotions.
Technique & Style
Sargent's use of charcoal achieves pronounced shadows, imparting depth to the sketches. The medium's expressiveness aligns with Sargent's skill in capturing nuanced facial expressions, though the specific technique of cross-hatching is not explicitly evident in this description.
History & Provenance
Created as preparatory studies for the painting 'Gassed', these drawings demonstrate Sargent's working process. However, specific details regarding the drawing's creation date, exhibition history, or current location are not provided.
Context
'Gassed' (the presumed final work) is likely linked to World War I, given the title's implication of chemical warfare. These studies may thus contribute to a broader artistic response to the war's horrors, though direct context within Sargent's oeuvre or the war art movement is not elaborated here.
Legacy
While the direct impact of 'Studies for Gassed' on Sargent's legacy is not detailed, it reflects his continued exploration of human suffering and emotional depth, themes that resonate throughout his body of work.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Singer Sargent (; January 12, 1856 – April 15, 1925) was an American expatriate artist, considered the "leading portrait painter of his generation" for his evocations of Belle Époque and Edwardian-era luxury.
