Two Sketches of a Crucifix 1893 - 1903

Editor: Here we have John Singer Sargent's "Two Sketches of a Crucifix," using graphite on paper. There's a raw, almost hurried quality to the lines. What strikes you about this work? Curator: It's interesting to consider this in terms of artistic labor. Sargent, known for his society portraits, here experiments with a religious subject. The rapid execution suggests a study, perhaps for a larger work. How does this relate to the societal demand for religious imagery at the time, and Sargent's own engagement with it? Editor: That's fascinating. I hadn't thought about the economic factors behind even a sketch like this. Curator: Exactly. Consider the cost of materials, the intended market, and Sargent's position within the art world. It all contributes to our understanding of this seemingly simple drawing. We’re seeing more than just a crucifix; we're seeing a product of its time. Editor: I see it now! Thanks! Curator: Indeed, looking at art through the lens of materials and making adds depth.