Gates of the Chapel of Santa Teresa, León Cathedral, Spain 19th-20th century

Editor: Here we have John Singer Sargent's sketch of the "Gates of the Chapel of Santa Teresa, León Cathedral, Spain." The delicate graphite lines give it such an ethereal quality. What strikes you about the composition? Curator: The linear precision is quite remarkable. Note how the geometric rigor of the vertical bars contrasts with the curvilinear flourishes above. Does that tension between structure and ornamentation suggest anything to you? Editor: Perhaps a balance between the earthly and the divine? I hadn’t thought about it that way. Curator: Indeed. Sargent's use of line not only depicts the gate but also invites contemplation on the very nature of architectural form. Editor: I see that now. Thanks for pointing out the interplay of those elements!