Study of Arms for the Law, "Israel and the Law," Boston Public Library 1895 - 1916

Curator: This is John Singer Sargent's "Study of Arms for the Law," part of the designs for his murals at the Boston Public Library. It's currently at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The charcoal feels so raw; the hands are strong but there’s a certain vulnerability in their rendering. Curator: The mural, "Israel and the Law," was part of a larger project exploring the development of religious thought, reflecting Sargent’s interest in the intersection of law, religion, and cultural identity. Editor: Thinking about the production of the mural, what kind of labour and material considerations were involved in scaling this up? The difference in scale from the charcoal study to the final work must have been significant. Curator: Sargent's interpretations were complex, often drawing criticism for his depictions of religious figures. The mural and this study reflect his negotiation of tradition and modernity. Editor: The mural and its context are fascinating! It's a good reminder that even preparatory sketches can have layers of meaning embedded within their materiality. Curator: Absolutely, and examining it through the lens of cultural history allows us to appreciate Sargent’s engagement with pressing social themes.