Sketches and Caricatures 1870 - 1871

Curator: This is John Singer Sargent’s "Sketches and Caricatures," part of the collection at the Harvard Art Museums. It consists of graphite on paper. Editor: Quite a playful sheet, isn't it? It evokes a sense of spontaneous observation, capturing fleeting expressions and personalities. Curator: Indeed. Sargent’s deft handling of line is evident; notice how with a few strokes, he conveys volume and texture. Each sketch, though unfinished, possesses a distinct character. Editor: It also seems to reflect an era of social observation, documenting the various characters he encountered and how they were perceived, perhaps echoing common societal attitudes. Curator: Precisely. And consider how the very act of sketching facilitates the artist's engagement with the world around him. Editor: A fascinating collection of faces and gestures. It gives one pause to consider how caricature can reflect and shape our understanding of others, past and present.