Studies of Peasants with Wheelbarrows [verso]

John Singer Sargent’s Studies of Peasants with Wheelbarrows [verso], executed between 1870 and 1872, is an intimate glimpse into the artistic development of one of the 19th century’s most celebrated American figures. Classified as a drawing, the work utilizes graphite applied delicately to wove paper. This piece belongs to Sargent's formative years, falling within the 1851 to 1875 period, a time when the young artist was refining his observational skills and draughtsmanship through academic study and travel across Europe.

The subject matter, reflecting the title, consists of preliminary sketches focusing on working-class individuals and their necessary tools, specifically wheelbarrows. The nature of the drawing, being the verso (reverse) side of a sheet, suggests that Sargent was utilizing materials efficiently for quick compositional planning or figure studies. The choice of graphite on wove paper provided Sargent the flexibility needed to rapidly capture motion and form. While known primarily for his society portraits later in his career, this earlier work demonstrates Sargent's foundational commitment to the human figure observed in everyday, unvarnished poses. The execution is quick and assured, characteristic of preparatory studies rather than finished exhibition pieces.

These studies are crucial for understanding Sargent’s evolving technical facility. As an American artist spending significant time abroad during this era, the drawing reflects typical academic exercises aimed at mastering realistic depiction before the rise of his signature Impressionistic approach. This specific sheet of studies is held within the renowned collection of the National Gallery of Art, providing scholars valuable insight into the artist’s methodology. Because many of Sargent’s works from this prolific period are often digitized and deemed part of the public domain, high-quality fine art prints are frequently sought by researchers and enthusiasts seeking to analyze the master’s early technique. The drawing’s focus on capturing light, shadow, and bodily effort established the robust technical groundwork that Sargent would later employ in his iconic oil paintings.