Study for the Law, for "Israel and the Law," Boston Public Library 1895 - 1916

Curator: John Singer Sargent created this charcoal drawing as a study for his mural "Israel and the Law" in the Boston Public Library. Editor: My first impression is one of concealment, almost shame. The figure is completely shrouded. Curator: The drapery is fascinating. It evokes ancient Greek and Roman sculpture, connecting the concept of law to classical authority. The obscured figure heightens its universality. Editor: It makes me wonder what is being hidden, what aspects of law are being questioned or shrouded in ambiguity. The title juxtaposes law with Israel, which suggests there may be additional layers. Curator: Exactly, Sargent's mural caused considerable controversy, due to its complex religious symbolism. The figure likely represents Judaism, with the drapery perhaps symbolizing the veiling of the Old Testament law. Editor: Even in this preliminary sketch, one feels the weight of history and the inherent tensions within legal and religious interpretations. Curator: A poignant reminder that symbols are rarely neutral; they carry centuries of interpretation. Editor: Indeed, art like this keeps us questioning and re-evaluating our own understanding of those symbols, doesn’t it?