Figure of a Child 1877

John Singer Sargent made this small drawing of a child with graphite on paper. This medium allowed him to create subtle tones, and fine lines. The visible, layered strokes of graphite reveal a process of constant adjustments, as Sargent sought to capture not just the figure's appearance but also its essence. His emphasis on the quick capture of light and form owes something to the rise of industrial manufacturing and the mass media, which made images more available, and artists more interested in the fleeting image. In its delicate lines and understated beauty, the drawing transcends traditional categories, inviting us to appreciate the skill and artistry inherent in what might otherwise be seen as just a preliminary sketch.