“The Misses Vickers” by John Singer Sargent, completed in 1884, is a portrait rendered in oil on canvas, belonging to the Realism art movement. The dimensions of the artwork are 137.8 by 182.9 centimeters, and it is currently housed at the Sheffield Galleries and Museums in Sheffield, UK.
The artwork showcases three young women, portrayed in an intimate and relaxed setting. The central figure, clad in a dark dress adorned with a single pink rose, is engrossed in reading a book, while the two other women on each side appear to engage with the viewer and each other, creating a dynamic interplay of gazes. The leftmost figure, dressed in white, is seated closely to the central figure, suggesting a connection through proximity and gesture. The rightmost figure, seated slightly apart, directs a subtle, knowing gaze towards the viewer, which, coupled with her distinct attire of red and white, adds a compelling contrast within the composition. The detailed rendering of the figures’ clothing and the delicate handling of light reflect Sargent’s mastery in capturing both the visual and emotional essence of his subjects.
