Two studies for Madame X John Singer Sargent (1856-1925)

The drawing presents two variations on a single figure, rendered in charcoal with a deliberate economy of line. Here we see a woman depicted twice, each version subtly altered and explored. The artists hand moves rapidly across the paper, creating a sense of immediacy and investigation.
In both studies, the subject is positioned in a three-quarter pose, her body turned slightly away from the viewer. Her gaze is directed towards something beyond the frame, suggesting introspection or perhaps an engagement with an unseen presence. The posture conveys a certain formality, yet the loose, gestural lines prevent it from feeling stiff or posed.
The artist has paid particular attention to the rendering of the shoulders and neckline. In one version, the strap of her dress is more prominently displayed, revealing a greater expanse of skin; in the other, it’s adjusted, creating a different visual effect. This focus on the shoulder line hints at an exploration of modesty versus allure, a delicate balance that was often negotiated within representations of women during this period.
The treatment of the hair is also noteworthy. It appears swept up and styled, indicative of fashionable trends, but the lines are not precise; they convey a sense of movement and texture rather than meticulous detail. The artist seems less interested in replicating exact appearances and more concerned with capturing an essence or mood.
The drawing’s value lies not just in its depiction of a figure, but also in its demonstration of the artistic process itself. These are studies – preliminary explorations intended to refine and inform a larger work. They offer insight into how the artist considered composition, posture, and detail before committing to a final version. The slight differences between the two versions suggest a careful consideration of nuance and effect; they speak to an ongoing dialogue between the artist and his subject.
Subtly, there is a sense of restraint present in the work. While the figure’s pose suggests a certain confidence, the muted tones and understated lines create an atmosphere of quiet contemplation rather than overt display. This contributes to a feeling of complexity – a suggestion that there may be more to this woman than initially meets the eye.