“Figure of a Child,” created by John Singer Sargent around 1877, is a pencil sketch that falls within the realism art movement. Measuring 20.6 by 13 centimeters, this artwork is a study and sketch that captures the essence of its subject with remarkable precision and simplicity.
The artwork depicts a young child standing with an informal pose, characterized by a relaxed yet slightly dynamic stance as though caught mid-movement. The child’s upper body is adorned in a loose-fitting garment, and the head is topped with a soft, hat-like accessory, adding to the whimsical and candid aura of the piece. The delicate pencil strokes employed by Sargent skillfully render the folds of the clothing, the subtle expressions of the face, and the youthful proportions of the child’s figure. The sketch maintains a minimalist approach, focusing on essential lines and forms to convey the liveliness and innocence of childhood. The light and shadow in the drawing subtly enhance the depth, making it a fine example of Sargent’s ability to study and represent the human form with keen observational prowess.
