Artwork
Studies for "Gassed" [recto]
![Studies for "Gassed" [recto], by John Singer Sargent, charcoal, 1918](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-singer-sargent--studies-for-gassed-recto--bf7797882a33859c-w1024.webp)
Studies for "Gassed" [recto] 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' [recto] is a charcoal and graphite drawing on laid paper by John Singer Sargent, depicting a poignant wartime scene.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing shows two military figures lying on the ground, their bodies intertwined, conveying the distressing aftermath of conflict and the human cost of war.
Technique & Style
Sargent employed charcoal and graphite to achieve expressive shading and textures, with subtle suggestions of cross-hatching contributing to the somber atmosphere.
History & Provenance
This work is a preparatory study for Sargent's larger composition 'Gassed', indicating its role in the development of the final piece.
Context
Created in the context of wartime, the drawing reflects Sargent's observation of the devastating effects of conflict on individuals.
Legacy
As a study for 'Gassed', this drawing provides insight into Sargent's creative process and his ability to evoke powerful emotions through simple yet effective draughtsmanship.
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.
Studies for "Gassed"
Studies for "Gassed"![Studies for "Gassed" [recto], by John Singer Sargent](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-singer-sargent--studies-for-gassed-recto--1cd4a47eb68752d0-w320.webp)
Studies for "Gassed" [recto]
Studies of a Soldier Drinking, for Gassed (recto)
Studies for "Gassed"![Studies for "Entering the War" [recto], by John Singer Sargent](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-singer-sargent--studies-for-entering-the-war-recto--358a2c3ea8bd7639-w320.webp)
Studies for "Entering the War" [recto]
Studies of a Soldier Drinking, for Gassed (recto); Studies of a Male Nude (verso)![Studies of Generals Plumer and Haig for "General Officers of World War I" [recto], by John Singer Sargent](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-singer-sargent--studies-of-generals-plumer-and-haig-for-general-officers-of--f81e6239baa10734-w320.webp)
Studies of Generals Plumer and Haig for "General Officers of World War I" [recto]