Study for "Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose" 1885

Editor: Here we have John Singer Sargent's preparatory sketch for "Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose." It's a whirlwind of lines, a dance of possibilities. What story do you see unfolding here? Curator: A delightful question! For me, it’s Sargent capturing the fleeting moment, that golden 'in-between' time of twilight. The hurried lines show movement as the girls light the lanterns, but it also hints at a melancholy, perhaps? He's searching for the soul of the scene, isn’t he? Editor: The soul of the scene... I like that! It’s more than just flowers and lanterns. Curator: Absolutely! It's a feeling. We are fortunate to be invited in!