John Singer Sargent (1856-1925) was American by parentage, though born in Florence. After studying in Paris, he arrived in London in 1884 calling himself an Impressionist although his work also showed the influence of both Frans Hals and Velasquez. He soon became a prolific and fashionable painter, known for his elegant ladies and sophisticated gentlemen. Although he spent much of his time working on a series of decorative paintings for public buildings, it is for his portraits that he is best known. This book concentrates on 100 paintings from his significant output, showing how they capture tbe charm and elegance, the opulence and assurance of the late Victorian and Edwardian eras and the place of the American ex-patriot in European society. Occasional quotes from Henry James reinforce the spirit of the age.