The artwork titled “Mabel Marquand, Mrs. Henry Galbraith Ward,” created by John Singer Sargent between c. 1891 and c. 1893, is an oil painting on canvas that belongs to the Realism art movement. Measuring 68.6 by 55.9 centimeters, the genre of this artwork is a portrait.
This realist portrait exquisitely captures the likeness of Mabel Marquand in an intimate and contemplative pose. The artist employs a muted color palette, focusing light on the subject’s face and upper body, which stands out against the dark, undefined background. The subtle use of shadows and highlights enhances the three-dimensionality and expression of the subject. Mabel is depicted wearing a high-collared blouse with a lace trim, her hand elegantly positioned under her chin, conveying a sense of grace and sophistication. The brushwork is deft yet restrained, highlighting Sargent’s masterful ability to render textures and details with precision.
