Sculpture of a Woman by John Singer Sargent

Sculpture of a Woman

John Singer Sargent · 1885

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“Stop to appreciate this intimate graphite drawing, a study of classical form that reveals the artist's keen eye for sculptural beauty and delicate draftsmanship.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This small graphite drawing, "Sculpture of a Woman," captures a classical female figure, likely a statue, rendered with a delicate touch. The artist uses soft, varied lines to suggest the contours and drapery of the sculpture, giving it a sense of volume despite the simplicity of the medium. You can almost feel the smooth, cool surface of the stone or marble. The way light seems to fall across the figure, highlighting certain planes and casting others into gentle shadow, creates a quiet drama. It's a study that emphasizes form and classical beauty, focusing on the timeless elegance of the sculpted body rather than a specific narrative or setting. The drawing reflects an interest in classical forms and the academic tradition of studying antiquity.

DETAILS
Artist
John Singer Sargent
Date
1885
Medium
Graphite on off-white wove paper
Location
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Dimensions
6 5/16 x 3 5/8 in. (16 x 9.2 cm)
Collection
The American Wing
Culture
American
Credit line
Gift of Mrs. Francis Ormond, 1950
ART MOVEMENTS
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What to Notice

Five details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Sculpture of a Woman
01

Observe the delicate shading that defines the figure's form.

02

Notice the subtle lines suggesting the drapery and folds of cloth.

03

See how the light appears to fall from the upper left, creating soft shadows.

04

Look at the precise yet fluid outlines of the figure.

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THE ARTIST

John Singer Sargent

1856–1925 · United States

The man who painted 900 oils and 2,000 watercolors once caused a Paris scandal with a single bare shoulder.

Read Sargent’s full story
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