“Woman Reading in a Cashmere Shawl,” a watercolor artwork created in 1909 by John Singer Sargent, exemplifies the Impressionism art movement. This genre painting, measuring 34.29 by 49.53 cm, is housed in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in Los Angeles, California, United States.
The artwork portrays a woman reclining with a book, enveloped in a luxurious cashmere shawl. The composition captures an intimate and serene moment, highlighting Sargent’s deft handling of watercolor to render the delicate textures and light. The brushstrokes convey a fluidity and softness, characteristic of the Impressionist style, while the rich hues and nuanced shading evoke a sense of warmth and calm. The woman’s pose and expression suggest a quiet engagement with her reading, creating a peaceful and contemplative scene.
