Study of a Horse for "Apollo in His Chariot with the Hours," Museum of Fine Arts, Boston 1922 - 1924

Curator: Here we have John Singer Sargent’s pencil study of a horse, preparatory work for his mural, "Apollo in His Chariot with the Hours," at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. It's roughly 47 by 62 centimeters. Editor: Wow, it feels so alive, even in its unfinished state. The horse practically leaps off the page with that powerful musculature. Curator: Absolutely! Sargent was a master of capturing movement and light. But, thinking about the material process, consider how many studies like this informed the final, monumental mural. It's a testament to labor. Editor: It makes you wonder about the countless hours he spent observing, sketching, and refining, all to conjure that sense of divine energy. Curator: Yes, it speaks volumes about Sargent's dedication to his craft, and the physical effort involved in creating such masterful works. Editor: I find it deeply moving to see the artist's process laid bare, the raw energy before it's transformed into something grand.