John Singer Sargent - En route pour la pêche (Setting Out to Fish), 1878
John Singer Sargent painted this when he was only 22 years old. What an incredible painting for that age. Enjoy this visual journey!
This painting is in the collection of the National Gallery of Art
About the Painting
Created in 1878 during Sargent's time in France, "En route pour la pêche" (Setting Out to Fish) captures a moment of daily life along the Brittany coast. The painting depicts Breton fisherwomen heading to work, carrying baskets and fishing equipment, with their children accompanying them. The scene reflects Sargent's deep interest in capturing authentic moments of working-class life, a theme popular among Realist painters of the period.
Historical Context
John Singer Sargent (1856-1925) was just 22 years old when he painted this masterwork. At this point in his career, the American-born artist was studying in Paris under the renowned portrait painter Carolus-Duran. During the summer of 1878, Sargent traveled to Cancale, a fishing village in Brittany, where he found inspiration in the local community and maritime culture. This painting represents one of his earliest significant works and demonstrates the remarkable skill he possessed even in his youth.
Artistic Techniques and Style
The painting showcases Sargent's brilliant handling of light and atmosphere. His brushwork is both bold and refined, capturing the texture of the women's clothing, the weight of their baskets, and the soft, diffused coastal light. The color palette features earthy browns and blues, with touches of white that suggest the sea foam and clouds. His technique shows influence from both Impressionism and Realism, blending loose, expressive strokes with careful attention to form and composition.
The painting measures 31 1/2 x 48 inches (80 x 121.9 cm) and was executed in oil on canvas. Sargent's ability to capture movement and the everyday dignity of his subjects is particularly evident in the confident postures of the women and the natural placement of the child.
Why This Painting Matters
This work is significant for several reasons. First, it demonstrates Sargent's precocious talent - few artists at age 22 could handle composition, light, and human figures with such sophistication. Second, it shows his interest in genre painting before he became famous primarily as a society portrait artist. Third, the painting reveals his connection to the French Realist tradition while maintaining his own unique vision.
The work was well-received when exhibited at the Paris Salon, helping to establish Sargent's reputation in European art circles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old was John Singer Sargent when he painted Setting Out to Fish?
John Singer Sargent was only 22 years old when he created this painting in 1878, showcasing his extraordinary talent at a young age.
Where is Setting Out to Fish displayed?
The painting is housed in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., where visitors can view it in person.
What technique did Sargent use for this painting?
Sargent used oil on canvas, employing a blend of Impressionist and Realist techniques with loose, expressive brushwork combined with careful attention to composition and form.
Where was the painting created?
The painting was created in Cancale, a fishing village in Brittany, France, during the summer of 1878 when Sargent was spending time studying the local fishing community.
What is the size of the painting?
The painting measures 31 1/2 x 48 inches (80 x 121.9 cm).
What art movement is this painting associated with?
The work bridges Realism and Impressionism, showing Sargent's interest in capturing authentic daily life while using modern painting techniques.
Why is this painting historically significant?
This painting is one of Sargent's earliest major works and demonstrates his exceptional talent at just 22 years old. It also represents an important phase before he became renowned primarily as a society portrait painter, showing his interest in everyday life and genre scenes.