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Delphi Complete Works of John Singer Sargent: An Illustrated Masterpiece

Osamu Dazai

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Published in Delphi Complete Works Of John Singer Sargent (Illustrated) (Masters Of Art 18)

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John Singer Sargent, an American artist renowned for his masterful portraiture and luminous brushwork, left an indelible mark on the art world. The Delphi Complete Works of John Singer Sargent presents a comprehensive collection of his artistic legacy, offering an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the depths of his creative genius.

Delphi Complete Works of John Singer Sargent (Illustrated) (Masters of Art 18)

Delphi Complete Works of John Singer Sargent (Illustrated) (Masters of Art Book 18)

by Amanda VanEver

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	244846 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1606 pages

Through meticulously reproduced images, insightful commentary, and a contextualized narrative, this illustrated volume invites readers to explore the full scope of Sargent's artistic journey. From his early academic training to his groundbreaking Impressionist experiments and his later grand portraits, the Delphi edition captures the essence of Sargent's transformative career.

Early Life and Training

Born in Florence, Italy, on January 12, 1856, John Singer Sargent's life was intertwined with the artistic world from an early age. His father, a physician, nurtured his son's passion for drawing and painting, and the young Sargent received his formal training in Paris at the prestigious Académie Julian.

At the Académie, Sargent honed his technical skills under the guidance of Carolus-Duran, a celebrated portraitist known for his realistic style. Sargent's early works, such as the striking portrait of his sister, Emily Sargent (1880),demonstrate his exceptional ability to capture the nuances of human character.

Impressionist Influences

In the 1880s, Sargent's artistic style underwent a profound transformation. He began experimenting with Impressionism, a movement that emphasized fleeting moments and the play of light and color. Sargent's brushwork became looser and more spontaneous, as exemplified by works such as "Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose" (1885-1886).

However, Sargent did not fully embrace the Impressionist style. He remained anchored in the tradition of realism, believing that strong draftsmanship and accurate representation were essential elements of a successful painting.

Portraitist to Society

Sargent's reputation as a portrait painter soared during the last two decades of the 19th century and the early 20th century. His ability to capture the likeness and personality of his subjects, combined with his elegant and flattering style, made him highly sought after by the elite of Europe and America.

Notable portraits from this period include "The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit" (1882),"Mrs. Henry White" (1883),and "Lady Agnew of Lochnaw" (1892). These works reveal Sargent's keen eye for detail, his mastery of color harmonies, and his ability to create a sense of intimacy and grandeur simultaneously.

War Paintings

During World War I, Sargent served as a war correspondent for the British Ministry of Information. He witnessed the horrors of the conflict firsthand, and his experiences inspired a series of powerful and moving paintings.

Works such as "Gassed" (1918) and "Sir Douglas Haig" (1925) provide a stark and haunting depiction of the human cost of war. Sargent's ability to convey the emotional and physical trauma of the soldiers is a testament to his artistic sensitivity and his profound empathy for the human condition.

Later Years and Legacy

In his later years, Sargent continued to paint portraits and landscapes, although his work took on a more introspective and contemplative quality. He also became increasingly interested in the use of watercolors.

John Singer Sargent died in London on April 15, 1925. His legacy as one of the greatest portrait painters and most significant American artists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries remains undiminished. His works continue to captivate audiences worldwide, inspiring awe and admiration for his technical mastery and his profound understanding of the human experience.

The Delphi Edition

The Delphi Complete Works of John Singer Sargent is a comprehensive collection of the artist's paintings, drawings, and watercolors. The edition includes over 300 high-quality reproductions, each accompanied by detailed captions and informative commentary.

In addition to the reproductions, the edition features a biographical and critical essay by an expert on Sargent's life and work. The essay provides a comprehensive overview of Sargent's artistic journey, exploring the influences and inspirations that shaped his style and examining the significance of his contributions to the world of art.

The Delphi Complete Works of John Singer Sargent is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the life and art of one of the most celebrated American painters. Through its comprehensive collection of high-quality reproductions and insightful commentary, the edition offers an immersive experience into Sargent's artistic world.

Whether you are an avid enthusiast of Sargent's work or simply curious about the life and legacy of a great artist, the Delphi edition is a must-have for your library. It is a timeless tribute to the talent, vision, and enduring legacy of John Singer Sargent.

Delphi Complete Works of John Singer Sargent (Illustrated) (Masters of Art Book 18)

by Amanda VanEver

4.7 out of 5