Who painted Clouds [verso]?

Clouds [verso] was painted by John Singer Sargent in 1871.

Where can I see Clouds [verso]?

Clouds [verso] is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Clouds [verso]?

Clouds [verso] is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Clouds [verso]?

Museum-quality prints of Clouds [verso] are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Clouds [verso]

John Singer Sargent , 1871

Clouds [verso] is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist John Singer Sargent. It dates from 1871 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower right verso in graphite by unknown hand: J.S.209.

About this work

Overview

Clouds [verso] is a graphite drawing on wove paper created by John Singer Sargent between 1870 and 1872. Measuring 9.53 × 14.29 cm, it features a landscape dominated by a cloudy sky with a discernible horizon, suggesting impending rain.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a largely empty landscape under a heavy, rain-laden sky, with a subtle hint of terrain. The emphasis is on capturing the natural world, particularly the dynamic interplay of light and weather, conveying a sense of an approaching storm.

Technique & Style

Executed in soft pencil, the sketch showcases Sargent's exploration of chiaroscuro, highlighting his ability to evoke mood through the contrast of light and dark. The technique reflects his practice of outdoor sketching, aiming to capture the fleeting effects of natural light and cloud movement.

History & Provenance

Created during Sargent's early period, this work demonstrates his focus on nature studies during this time. It is currently part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art.

Context

Within the context of Sargent's oeuvre, Clouds [verso] represents an early example of his dedication to capturing the natural world, distinct from his later, more renowned portrait works. It reflects the influence of outdoor sketching on his development as an artist.

Legacy

While not as widely recognized as Sargent's portrait paintings, Clouds [verso] contributes to the understanding of his technical experimentation and thematic interests in his formative years, particularly his pursuit of rendering atmospheric conditions.

Study of a landscape with clouds, Thomas Tudor

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Artist & collection

Artist

John Singer Sargent

John Singer Sargent (; January 12, 1856 – April 15, 1925) was an American expatriate artist, considered the "leading portrait painter of his generation" for his evocations of Belle Époque and Edwardian-era luxury.