John Singer Sargent 1880

This is Augustus Saint-Gaudens' bronze portrait medallion of John Singer Sargent. Saint-Gaudens, an Irish-American sculptor, created it in honor of his friend, Sargent, an American expatriate artist. The late 19th century saw the rise of portrait medallions as signifiers of status, often commissioned by or for individuals of privilege. This one speaks to the artistic and social circles of both men in Paris. Sargent's likeness, captured in profile, presents him as a figure of intellect. The inscription, "To a friend, John Sargent, Paris," hints at the personal bond between the artists, while also staking a claim to their shared cultural milieu. It’s interesting to consider how artists choose to represent one another. This medallion serves as a token of friendship but it also subtly elevates Sargent within the artistic echelons of their time. It's a reminder of how portraiture can both reflect and construct identities.