Overlay Drawing for "Frieze of the Angels," Boston Public Library

Overlay Drawing for "Frieze of the Angels," Boston Public Library by John Singer Sargent

The "Overlay Drawing for 'Frieze of the Angels'" is a preparatory work by John Singer Sargent, created in 1916 using charcoal and chalk on paper. This drawing is part of Sargent's extensive contributions to the Boston Public Library, where he was commissioned to create a series of murals. The "Frieze of the Angels" is a significant component of Sargent's mural cycle, which reflects his mastery in combining classical themes with modern techniques. Sargent, renowned for his portraiture, demonstrated his versatility and skill in large-scale mural work through this project. The use of charcoal and chalk in the drawing highlights Sargent's ability to convey depth and movement, essential for the dynamic composition of the final mural. This work underscores Sargent's pivotal role in the American Renaissance movement, bridging European artistic traditions with American cultural aspirations.

The "Overlay Drawing for 'Frieze of the Angels,'" created by John Singer Sargent in 1916, is a preparatory work using charcoal and chalk on paper, showcasing the artist's meticulous planning for the mural in the Boston Public Library. The drawing reflects Sargent's adeptness in combining classical themes with a modern approach, emphasizing the ethereal presence of angels in a frieze format.