Artwork

Study of Drapery [verso]

Study of Drapery [verso], by John Singer Sargent, charcoal, 1921
Study of Drapery [verso], by John Singer Sargent, charcoal, 1921

Study of Drapery [verso] is a charcoal drawing by John Singer Sargent. It dates from 1921 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Study of Drapery [verso] is a charcoal drawing on laid paper by John Singer Sargent, featuring a seated figure in a robe with intricate folds, characterized by minimal facial detail and short hair.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a seated figure, but the focus is on the robe's folds, indicating Sargent's interest in capturing everyday details and textures rather than portraiture.

Technique & Style

Executed in charcoal, the drawing emphasizes Sargent's ability to convey depth and atmosphere through shading and line work, particularly in the rendering of the robe.

History & Provenance

Created between 1920 and 1922, the drawing measures 47.94 × 57.79 cm. Its current location and full provenance are not specified in available information.

Context

This work reflects Sargent's broader practice of observational drawing, often used to study light, shadow, and texture, skills also applied in his more renowned portrait paintings.

Legacy

While not a portrait, the drawing contributes to understanding Sargent's technical skill and observational approach, influencing subsequent artists in the study of everyday subjects and textile rendering.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Singer Sargent

Artist

John Singer Sargent

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.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.