Studies of Male Nudes [verso]

Studies of Male Nudes [verso] is a masterful drawing by John Singer Sargent, executed between 1918 and 1919. This work is rendered primarily in charcoal on laid paper, a medium Sargent often utilized for rapid sketches and academic studies.

The drawing features multiple overlapping studies of the male figure in various dynamic poses, suggesting an artist working through complex anatomical problems or preparing figures for a larger, multi-figure composition. Sargent’s fluid command of charcoal is evident in the energetic line work, which efficiently captures muscle structure and mass while exploiting the texture and tooth of the laid paper. As the title indicates, this sheet represents studies found on the reverse side of a primary drawing, offering intimate insight into the American artist's precise yet rapid working methods during the height of the 1901 to 1925 period.

Created during the final years of Sargent’s prolific career, this drawing reflects his increasing dedication to decorative schemes and monumental mural painting after he largely abandoned society portraiture. Though often associated with European high society due to his time spent working in London and Paris, Sargent’s mature artistic output remained intrinsically American in its cultural lineage, frequently tackling challenging figure groups required for commissions like those at the Boston Public Library.

This powerful drawing underscores Sargent's enduring skill as a draftsman, cementing his status as one of the preeminent figure artists of the early 20th century. The original work resides within the distinguished permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art. Due to the historical importance of the study, high-quality digital prints are often made available to the public through public domain resources, allowing scholars and enthusiasts worldwide to access Sargent’s private academic explorations.