Isolde and Brangäner, from "Tristan and Isolde" (recto and verso) 1880 - 1885

Editor: This is John Singer Sargent's "Isolde and Brangäner, from 'Tristan and Isolde'," a sketch at the Harvard Art Museums. It's quite dramatic, with stark contrasts. How do you interpret this work in the context of its time? Curator: Sargent's interest in Wagnerian themes reflects a broader cultural fascination. Consider the rise of nationalism and the use of mythology for political purposes. How might this sketch engage with the public perception of Wagner's operas and their societal impact? Editor: That's interesting, I hadn't thought about the political implications. It seems like more than just an illustration then. Curator: Precisely. Sargent, through this sketch, participates in a cultural dialogue, shaping and reflecting the opera's reception. It invites us to consider the artwork's role in reinforcing or challenging prevailing ideologies. Did it change your perspective? Editor: Absolutely, I now see it as part of a much larger conversation. Thanks!