Madame Gautreau (Madame X)

John Singer Sargent

c. 1883

Madame Gautreau (Madame X) by John Singer Sargent, c. 1883

This fluid watercolor sketch captures a woman with auburn hair swept into a casual bun, seated on a vibrant teal sofa. She wears a striking black bodice that contrasts sharply with her pale skin and the cool blue-green background, while clutching a stack of white papers or a book in her lap. The loose, confident brushstrokes suggest this was a quick study, capturing a candid moment rather than a formal pose. The way the colors bleed and blend gives the piece an almost dreamy, unfinished quality that feels incredibly modern.

Technique
watercolor
Material
watercolor on paper
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