Seated Men (c. 1874-1877)

John Singer Sargent, an artist renowned for his mastery in portrait painting, showcases an intriguing departure from his typical grandiloquence in the sketch "Seated Men". Dating from around 1874 to 1877, this drawing reveals Sargent's exceptional ability to capture the essence of his subjects with economy and a seemingly effortless stroke.In this piece, the artist skillfully renders two men seated closely together, their poses relaxed yet distinctly individual. The figure on the left assumes a more upright position, his legs crossed and one arm holding what appears to be a book, suggesting a moment caught in either contemplation or conversation. The other man, lounging with his legs stretched out, is depicted in a more reclined pose, adding a dynamic contrast between the two. The light, sketchy lines convey movement and ease, whilst a wisp of smoke curling above them adds a transient, almost ethereal quality to the scene.The raw energy of Sargent's pencil work in "Seated Men" allows us a glimpse into his process as an artist — the rapid sketches where each line plays a crucial role in defining character and mood. This image serves not only as a standalone artwork but also as a revealing piece of the methodology behind Sargent’s more polished compositions.Perfect for those intrigued by the nuances of human interaction and the subtleties of expression, "Seated Men" is a striking example of Sargent's prowess in capturing the fleeting moments of everyday life.