Study of a Vulture with Wings Spread c. 1890 - 1916

Curator: Here we have John Singer Sargent’s, "Study of a Vulture with Wings Spread," a small but striking drawing. It resides here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's hauntingly beautiful, isn't it? The stark simplicity of the graphite on paper, the monumental scale of the wing given its diminutive size--it speaks of vulnerability and potential. Curator: Vultures, often seen as symbols of death and decay, also represent cleansing and renewal. It is interesting that Sargent, known for his portraits of high society, chose this subject. Editor: Perhaps Sargent saw past the surface, glimpsing the transformative power inherent in the vulture's role. The wing itself is a potent symbol of freedom and escape. This sketch, stripped bare, feels raw and very personal. Curator: I agree. It's a reminder that even the most unconventional subjects can reveal profound truths. Editor: Exactly! This is a potent image that captures our imagination.