“Perseus, Florence” is an artwork created by John Singer Sargent in 1902. The piece, executed in pencil and watercolor on paper, belongs to the Impressionism art movement and represents a cityscape genre. Measuring 37.4 x 26.6 cm, it currently resides in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a derivative of Benvenuto Cellini’s famed bronze statue ‘Perseus with the Head of Medusa’ situated in Florence. Perseus, the Greek mythological hero, is shown with confidence, holding Medusa’s severed head. The background features a monumental column, hinting at the architectural grandeur typical of Florence. Employing subtle shades of brown and blue, Sargent captures the awe-inspiring presence of the statue with detailed precision, highlighting the textures and forms of the hero’s muscular physique and Medusa’s horrifying, limp head. The watercolor technique imparts a delicate and fluid quality to the scene, rendering the imposing statue with a graceful and impressionistic touch.