Seated Arabs
Original title: Seated Arabs
kurzbeschreibung
John Singer Sargent's drawing 'Sitzende Araber' from 1905–6 shows two seated figures in traditional dress. Executed in graphite on off-white wove paper, the sheet measures 21.9 x 29.2 cm.
Description
Two people sit side by side, both wrapped in long robes and wearing head coverings. The left figure has crossed legs, one hand resting on a knee, the upper body leaning slightly forward. The right figure holds their arms in their lap, head tilted a little to the right. The layout is symmetrical, with no background elements. Graphite is the only tonal medium.
Context
During his travels in the Middle East, Sargent made numerous sketches of locals. This study dates from around 1905–6, when he devoted himself increasingly to watercolor and graphite work. Such sheets served as preparations for larger paintings and attest to his ongoing interest in Oriental motifs.
Impact
The calm, symmetrical arrangement and confident linework give the sheet its expressiveness. Because all accessories are absent, the postures and the fabric quality of the garments come to the fore. This plain elegance lends the drawing a timeless quality.
Technique
Graphite on off-white, smooth wove paper. Fine, certain strokes and hatching model folds and volume. Thus Sargent achieves high precision and textural effect with few means.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)