Family

The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit

John Singer Sargent (American/Italian)

1882

This painting by John Singer sargent is not of an entire family, but of the four daughters of the family. This painting's depicts family in a strange way. All of the daughters are "isolated"; aloof from each other. However, at the same time, we (the viewer) have a strong sense of connection. Mr. Sargent may be trying to show that even if a family is not "together," they are still a family. In addition, it may be showing that each member of the family is not the "same," but  there is still a sense of unity.

John Singer Sargent uses many of the principles of design to communicate these points. He utilizes the principle of emphasis by using placement and grouping. The placement of the daughters makes each daughter stand-out "individually." Also by grouping the two daughters in the back does show some unity. Singer also uses contrast to make the daughters stand-out. In the back, the darkness makes the two girls stand out, and the darkness of the girl on the left makes the "difference" between the two girls. In addition, the contrasts of colors of the daughters' shirts shows their "differences" (in preferences).  There is also the principle of balance in this painting (asymmetry). The two daughters together are in the middle, and on each side of them, there is one other daughter. This balance creates the sense of family and unity because balance is a symbol that can represent family.

Although this painting does not depict a mother and father, there is a family within a family when the children are pictured, and they in fact may be a microcosm or representation of the "complete" family.