Artwork
Turkish Woman by a Stream
Turkish Woman by a Stream is a watercolor work on paper by the Orientalist artist John Singer Sargent. It dates from 1907 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Turkish Woman by a Stream is a 1907 watercolour by John Singer Sargent, depicting a reclining figure beside a stream.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is Polly Barnard, daughter of painter Frederick Barnard, dressed in Turkish attire. Sargent inscribed the work for her mother, Alice Barnard, suggesting a personal connection.
Technique & Style
Sargent employed rapid, wet brushstrokes to convey the play of light on water and fabric. Softly blended colours, particularly on the subject's face and hands, create a dreamy effect.
History & Provenance
The work was bequeathed to the Victoria & Albert Museum in 1949 by Dorothy Barnard, having passed through the family after being inscribed by Sargent for Alice Barnard. It was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1926 under the title provided by the artist.
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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.
