My DAM Favorite
Rosina Ferrara, Head of a Capri Girl 1878. Oil paint on cardboard. w: 9 7/8 in, h: 12 7/8 in.
John Singer Sargent. American, 1856-1925. 1878.
This striking painting has resided at the Denver Art Museum for close to ten years now, and it continues to intrigue museum visitors and spark captivating dialogues in the gallery. In contrast to many male artists of his time, John Singer Sargent displays an innocent, virtuous interest in the young female as a subject. The painter displays the interest delightfully with his 1878 cardboard oil painting of a young Capri girl named Rosina Ferrara.
Not all male artists of the nineteenth century had thoughts as respectful as Sargent. Then, and truthfully now, the curiosity around the young female subject was and is highly rooted in distasteful, immoral, and vile endeavors. For longer than we all know, the public has given applause to an overwhelming amount of people who act in accordance with these evil efforts. These people, who are predominantly male, are now famous and esteemed artists due to the public’s complicity.
However, it’s refreshing, and moreover, it’s comforting to experience a piece of work that contradicts such beliefs as does that of John S. Sargent.
Sargent’s 'unfinished' depiction of Rosina Ferrara focuses solely on her soft and tender facial profile, with the portrait ending at the base of her neck clearly marked by pencil. The artist made the choice to portray Rosina from the lateral, which offers subtle anonymity to her visual appearance, something obscure to many female subjects. However this decision does not hinder the delivery of Sargent’s painting whatsoever.
Rosina’s delicate, and frankly flawless, skin is executed finely by the smooth, seamless brushwork. The blending of tones creates a velvety look for the faultless, child-like skin of hers. The loose yet bold marks of dark umber color sprawl across Rosina’s crown, with expressive scratches of relief framing her figure. The hints of white and green floral arrangements in Rosina’s curling locks of hair allude to the high-spirited, care-free fantasy that every little girl once wishes to enjoy.
John S. Sargent’s honest and clean interest in Rosina Ferrara successfully translates to viewers, leaving many astounded by its beautiful execution of divergence from the norm. As we appreciate Sargent’s work, we desire to see more art of such strength and delight.
Coming Up Next on MYDAMFAV:
Natura Non Facit Saltum by Jeffrey Gibson