Face and Hand; Two Male Heads; verso: Sketch of Sir Squire Bancroft (1841 - 1926); Decorative Design Possibly 1907

Editor: Here we see John Singer Sargent's sketch, "Face and Hand; Two Male Heads," held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's interesting to see the rapid linework and how casually these portraits are rendered. What does this sketch reveal about Sargent's process? Curator: Well, these sketches offer a glimpse into the world of portraiture at the turn of the century and the artist's role in shaping public perception. Sargent was known for capturing the likenesses of prominent figures, contributing to their lasting image. Editor: So, it's about more than just technique; it's about constructing a narrative? Curator: Precisely. Consider how these sketches might have influenced the final portraits, reinforcing particular societal ideals or power dynamics. It is interesting to think about what these sketches mean to the sitter. Editor: Fascinating. I never thought about the public role of a simple sketch. Thank you.