Head and Arm Studies for one of Angels at Right, "Israel and the Law," Boston Public Library 1895 - 1916

Curator: Here we have John Singer Sargent's "Head and Arm Studies for one of Angels at Right, 'Israel and the Law,' Boston Public Library," currently housed at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It looks so raw! The rough charcoal sketches almost feel like the artist is wrestling with the figure, trying to capture something fleeting. Curator: Indeed, this sketch offers an intimate look into Sargent's creative process as he prepared for his monumental murals. Sargent's commissions for institutions and prominent families cemented his reputation in the art world. Editor: The focus on the physicality of the arms is striking. The way the charcoal renders the tension in the muscles suggests the labor of creation, or perhaps even divine intervention. I wonder what paper he was using; it seems quite absorbent. Curator: Sargent’s murals, commissioned during a period of religious and civic construction, reflected the societal aspirations of his patrons. The sketch is a glimpse into that world of artistic production. Editor: Seeing the labor involved makes me appreciate the final result even more. It really highlights the craftsmanship that underpins even the most seemingly effortless works. Curator: Absolutely, it gives us a greater understanding of the history and ideas within the final artwork. Editor: This peek behind the scenes certainly makes you consider the material realities of creating something so grand.