Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

"Nonchaloir (Repose)," created in 1911 by John Singer Sargent, exemplifies the artist’s masterful command of portraiture and his ability to capture the subtleties of human emotion and demeanor. This oil on canvas painting, which measures 25 3/4 x 36 1/8 inches (65.4 x 91.8 cm), can be found in the esteemed collection of The Royal Academy of Arts in London.

"Nonchaloir (Repose)" presents a tranquil scene of a young woman reclining in a plush armchair. The woman, absorbed in a moment of quiet reflection, exudes an air of serene elegance. Sargent’s delicate brushstrokes and lush, muted color palette draw attention to the intricate details of her flowing white dress, the soft textures of the chair's upholstery, and the gentle play of light and shadow across the scene.

The subject’s posture is informal yet graceful; she reclines with one leg draped over the arm of the chair, her right arm resting across her forehead in an almost lyrical gesture. Her gaze is directed downwards, as though lost in a daydream or caught in a moment of introspection. Sargent’s depiction of light is particularly striking – soft daylight seems to filter from an unseen source, enveloping the figure in a warm, ambient glow that enhances the painting's overall sense of calm and repose.

John Singer Sargent (1856–1925) is renowned for his portraits, which encapsulate the elegance and sophistication of his subjects. By 1911, Sargent was at the height of his career, having established himself as one of the leading portrait painters of his time. "Nonchaloir (Repose)" represents a departure from his formal commissioned portraits, offering instead a more intimate and personal study.

This work aligns with the broader Impressionist movement, albeit through the lens of Sargent’s distinctive style. His use of loose brushstrokes, keen observation of light, and emphasis on capturing the fleeting moment connect him to the movement's principles, even as he retained a realism that was uniquely his own. Sargent was also influenced by the Aesthetic Movement, seen in his focus on beauty and the harmonious arrangement of visual elements.

- Pose and Composition: The relaxed, nonchalant pose of the subject is a marked contrast to the rigid, formal postures seen in many of Sargent’s commissioned works. This informality lends the painting an intimate and personal quality.

- Technique and Style: Sargent's technique displays his adeptness at capturing different textures – from the delicate lace of the woman's dress to the velvety richness of the chair. His brushwork is both confident and refined, demonstrating his mastery of form and light.

- Thematic Elegance: The painting reflects Sargent’s fascination with poise and tranquility, evoking a quiet moment of contemplation that speaks to the viewer across time.

"Nonchaloir (Repose)" was part of Sargent’s personal oeuvre and reflects his passion for capturing nuanced expressions and relaxed poses. Today, the painting is a beloved piece within The Royal Academy of Arts, showcasing Sargent’s legacy as a premier portrait artist who deftly blended realism with impressionistic sensitivity.

In conclusion, “Nonchaloir (Repose)” stands as a testament to John Singer Sargent's ability to transcend the mere likeness of his subjects, capturing instead the ephemeral, introspective moments that define the human experience. This serene masterpiece continues to captivate viewers with its elegance and understated beauty.