Artwork
Napoleonic Head and Judgment of Paris [verso]
![Napoleonic Head and Judgment of Paris [verso], by John Singer Sargent, graphite, 1872](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-singer-sargent--napoleonic-head-and-judgment-of-paris-verso--85c80d19116af53e-w1024.webp)
Napoleonic Head and Judgment of Paris [verso] is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist John Singer Sargent. It dates from 1872 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This graphite drawing on wove paper, created by John Singer Sargent around 1871-1872, presents two distinct sketches on a single sheet: a Napoleonic-era soldier on one side and an interpretation of the Judgment of Paris myth on the other.
Subject & Meaning
One side depicts a soldier in Napoleonic uniform, while the other illustrates three figures and a golden apple, referencing the mythological Judgment of Paris. The dual composition may reflect Sargent's exploratory approach during his studies.
Technique & Style
Executed in sharp yet light graphite lines, the drawing suggests an experimental or preparatory character, consistent with Sargent's practice of copying old masters like Velázquez to master shading techniques during his time in Spain.
History & Provenance
Created while Sargent was studying in Spain, the drawing is now part of the Corcoran Collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
Study for "The Judgement of Paris" or "The Amorous Shepherd"
Scene in a Palace of Justice
Study for "Casts from Antique Sculpture: The Parthenon"![Sheet of Studies, including Warrior with Child [recto and verso], by John Flaxman](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-flaxman--sheet-of-studies-including-warrior-with-child-recto-and-vers--5c5dd1ec083169b5-w320.webp)
Sheet of Studies, including Warrior with Child [recto and verso]
Sheet of Studies with Angels and Cowering Figures (Illustration for Macklin's Bible?)
The Headhunter and His Family
Statue of a Nude before a Window View
Studies Including a Straw Hat
A Western woman seated at a table
Study for Pilgrim's Progress (?)![Studies for a Monument with Angels Reaching Down to a Praying Figure [recto and verso], by John Flaxman](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-flaxman--studies-for-a-monument-with-angels-reaching-down-to-a-prayin--9d789ab993a76a50-w320.webp)
Studies for a Monument with Angels Reaching Down to a Praying Figure [recto and verso]
Study for "The Deluge"