Study of a Profile Head; verso: Three Studies of a Child's Head 1871

Editor: Here we have John Singer Sargent’s sketch, "Study of a Profile Head," made with graphite on paper. I'm struck by how modern it feels, almost like a deconstruction of portraiture. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Sargent’s rapid lines seem to pierce through the surface, almost obscuring the subject. Those bold strokes across the face – do they represent a veil, a mask, or perhaps a form of censorship? How does this disruption speak to the sitter’s identity, or lack thereof? Editor: It's interesting how the obscured face invites me to consider what is hidden or unspoken. Thanks for pointing that out. Curator: Indeed. Consider the weight of unexpressed emotions, the silent narratives embedded in every portrait.