Light and Shade

Sargent travelled to Paris in the spring of 1874 to enter the studio of Carolus-Duran (1838-1917) and enrol at the École des Beaux-Arts. The École at that time was very much focussed on developing an understanding of the human form and in echoing the great works of the Old Masters. While there, Sargent studied in the life class of Adolphe Yvon, and judging by the model's academic pose, it was probably there that the present drawing was executed. In its bold contrasts of light and shade, this drawing demonstrates the influence of Carolus-Duran and his innovative use of tone, giving a sense of atmosphere and drama not usually associated with the academic nude.

We are grateful to Richard Ormond for his help in preparing this catalogue entry.