“Study of Mme Gautreau” is a sketch and study painting created by John Singer Sargent in 1884. This artwork, which belongs to the Realism art movement, is housed in Tate Britain, London, UK.
The artwork portrays a woman in profile, with her face turned to the right. The subject is dressed in a black, off-the-shoulder gown, her skin contrasting sharply with the dark fabric. Her pose is both elegant and poised, with one arm resting on what appears to be a ledge or table, while the other arm is relaxed, hanging by her side. The background is unfinished, with rough brush strokes giving a sense of an incomplete setting, further emphasizing the focus on the figure itself. Overall, the artwork exemplifies a meticulous study of form and posture, highlighting Sargent’s skill in capturing the essence of his subject through minimal yet expressive detail.