Sketchbook: Studies for the Boston Public Library Mural "The Triumph of Religion": "Frieze of Prophets" 1890 - 1895

Editor: This is a sketchbook by John Singer Sargent, containing studies for "The Triumph of Religion" mural, specifically the "Frieze of Prophets." I'm struck by the simple, almost worn appearance of the cover. What can we learn from examining this object itself? Curator: Absolutely. Let's consider the materiality of this sketchbook. The worn cover tells us about its use, its handling. What kind of paper did Sargent prefer? What binding techniques? These details reflect the labor and materials involved in art production at the time. They also offer insights into how Sargent conceptualized and developed his monumental murals, transforming a readily made object into a vital tool. Editor: So, even the seemingly mundane aspects reveal a lot about the artist's process and the broader context of his work. Curator: Precisely. By examining the materials and the process, we gain a deeper understanding of the social context that informs the creation of high art.