Two Girls (Primary Title)
John Singer Sargent, American (born Italy), 1856 - 1925 (Artist)
Although certainly painted around 1886 when Sargent made two important visits to a small artist’s colony in the English village of Broadway, little else is known about this mysterious watercolor. Two girls in unusual, almost theatrical dress sit in a dark room. The simple architecture, rustic treatment, and open windows suggest a barn setting, perhaps the one that famed muralist Edwin Austin Abbey converted into his studio. The strange location coupled with the atypical costumes has prompted several art historians to speculate that Sargent’s painting may record a scene from a dramatic presentation. Tableaux vivantes—silent poses invoking historic or literary figures—were popular activities at social gatherings as a form of artistic masquerade. They would have suited Sargent’s intimate circle of friends with whom this work is associated.
James W. and Frances Gibson McGlothlin Collection
Ormond/Kilmurray: no. 164.
"American Art from the McGlothlin Collection" Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (1 May - 18 July 2010).
"Capturing Beauty: American Impressionist & Realist Paintings from the McGlothlin Collection," Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (19 May-18 September, 2005).
"Works by the Late John S. Sargent, RA," Royal Academy, London (1926).
"Capturing Beauty: American Impressionist & Realist Paintings from the McGlothlin Collection," Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (19 May-18 September, 2005).
"Works by the Late John S. Sargent, RA," Royal Academy, London (1926).
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
