Studies for ‘Astronomy’ c. 1921

This charcoal drawing by John Singer Sargent, titled "Studies for ‘Astronomy’, " is a preparatory study for a larger painting that would depict the celestial figure, Astronomy, which he created around 1921. In this composition, Sargent uses a circular format to frame the main figure of a seated woman dressed in flowing drapery, holding a measuring instrument. Another study of a seated nude figure, also within a circle, appears in the upper right corner of the page. This drawing highlights Sargent's mastery of drawing, in which he explores composition and form using expressive, dynamic lines.