The artwork under consideration, titled “Statue of Daphne,” was created by John Singer Sargent in the year 1910. Executed in watercolor on paper, this piece is associated with the Impressionist movement. Measuring 52.7 by 40.15 cm, the artwork falls under the genre of cityscape and is currently housed in the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) located in Boston, MA, US.
The artwork depicts a statue of Daphne, elegantly portrayed with fluid, expressive brushstrokes characteristic of watercolor. The statue is set against a backdrop featuring tall trees and various flora, contributing to an impressionistic portrayal of an outdoor scene. The lighting in the painting suggests either dawn or dusk, casting a soft, serene atmosphere. The use of vibrant yet harmonious colors accentuates the ethereal quality of the statue, making it appear almost alive amidst its natural surroundings. The background’s diffused detail contrasts with the more finely nuanced rendering of the statue, highlighting the central subject while maintaining the impressionistic aesthetics of the overall composition.