Orestes and the Furies — John Singer Sargent (c. 1920–1921)

Torchlight, torn drapery, a mind under siege. In this late mythic scene by John Singer Sargent, Orestes recoils as the Furies descend—muscular forms, sweeping cloth, and jagged shadows driving the drama. Classical tragedy, staged with modern, cinematic force.

Why it captivates

• High drama — coiled bodies, flying fabric, and a tight, stage-like space.

• Masterful gesture — Sargent’s fluid drawing animates every limb and fold.

• Chiaroscuro punch — torchlit warms against deep, sculptural shadow.

• Myth made modern — ancient grief told with 20th-century immediacy.

• Art-historical resonance — from Sargent’s powerful late myth and mural projects.

• Statement artwork — a bold focal point for living rooms, offices, and libraries.

What you’ll see

Orestes at centre, twisting away; the Furies (Erinyes) lunging from shadow with outstretched arms and whipping drapery; jagged highlights that carve muscle and cloth; a compressed space that heightens impact. Up close: decisive brush and charcoal-like edges. From a step back: surging movement and theatre.

A richer historical frame

Created c. 1920–1921, this work belongs to Sargent’s late classical subjects, where his virtuoso portrait hand turns to myth—large, dramatic compositions that read like set pieces. The result marries academic command with modern tempo: Greek tragedy rendered as living spectacle.

Choose your finish

🌟 Heavyweight Paper (160 gsm matte)
Archival-grade, smooth matte stock ideal for framing under glass. Crisp detail, minimal glare.

💎 Laminated (True Encapsulation)
Sealed in 2 × 80-micron gloss laminate, edge-to-edge. Durable, wipe-clean—perfect for busy spaces.

🪵 Laminated + Timber Hang Rails (Ready to hang)
Lacquered natural timber rails with fitted hanging cord; no frame required.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

🏆 Archival Canvas (395 gsm HP Professional Matte)
Museum-quality texture with pigment-based, fade-resistant inks for rich tone and fine detail.

🪵 Canvas + Timber Hang Rails (Gallery-ready)
As above, supplied with lacquered natural timber rails and hanging cord.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

Size (W × H)

729 × 841 mm (approx. 28.70 × 33.11 in)

• Orientation: Portrait

• Aspect ratio: ~0.867 : 1

• Nearest standard frame: A0 portrait (841 × 1189 mm) with a custom mat, or a custom 729 × 841 mm frame

• Framing tips:

  • Classic: cut the mat window to ~725 × 837 mm for a clean 2–3 mm overlap.

  • Contemporary: float-mount in an A0 frame for a generous gallery reveal.

Custom sizing: Available on request (alternate ratios or added white border).

Specifications

Who it’s for

• Lovers of myth & theatre

• Sargent admirers drawn to virtuoso gesture and light

• Collectors & stylists curating dramatic, conversation-starting rooms

• Educators exploring classical narratives in modern art

Our Commitment

Every print is produced locally in Australia on premium substrates with careful colour management, then checked and packed by hand so it arrives ready to impress. From studio to wall, we stand behind the craftsmanship and historical integrity of your piece.

Bring Greek tragedy’s electric charge to your space—order your fine-art print of Orestes and the Furies today.