The Rebellious Curator

Lady Agnew by John Singer-Sargent, 1893

Best known for his lavish portraits, John Singer-Sargent was disciplined and hard-working. His studio methods and protocol for portrait-painting were well-established and followed to the letter. After securing a commission, he visited the client's home, to see where the painting would hang. He would then review the client's wardrobe, and select suitable attire for the sitting. Most portraits were painted at his studio, which was well-stocked with furniture and backdrops for proper lighting and effect. He required 8-10 sittings, during which he kept pleasant conversation, or played the piano for his sitter during breaks. He had no assistants, and prepared canvases, handled all documentation, and shipped the artwork himself.

He charged $5,000.00 ($120,000.00 current US dollars) per portrait.

He is said to have completed over 900 portrait paintings and more than 2,000 watercolours.  

Fountain in a Medici Villa by John Singer-Sargent, 1907

Watercolour with graphite underdrawing, Brooklyn Museum

Perfection.