Sailboat Towing Dory c. 1875

John Singer Sargent sketched "Sailboat Towing Dory" using graphite on paper, a readily available material that allowed him to capture a fleeting moment with efficiency. Notice how the softness of the graphite allows Sargent to create a hazy atmosphere, evoking the maritime environment, as well as the textures of the boat and sails. The medium, though simple, allows for a range of tonal values, from the dark, solid lines defining the boat's hull to the subtle gradations suggesting the water's surface. The sketchiness of the drawing speaks to a moment of quick observation. The scene hints at the labor involved in maritime activities, yet Sargent focuses on the aesthetic qualities rather than the harsh realities of the work. This distance reflects a broader social context, where the leisure class had the privilege to observe and appreciate scenes of labor without directly engaging in it. Ultimately, the value of this work lies not only in its aesthetic appeal, but also in its material qualities and what they tell us about the artist's perspective, and the society in which he lived.