From: Art of the First World War

During his stay in France in the summer of 1918, Sargent travelled all over the Picardy and Artois regions. In Arras, he painted the ruins of the cathedral and collapsed houses like this one. A shell has burst through the wall, revealing an old horse-drawn carriage. The floor has fallen on top of part of it with planks of wood left hanging in mid-air. With his skill and rapid execution,Sargent has captured the scene in watercolours without seeking additional detail for extra pathos. The Scottish soldiers resting nearby are perfectly indifferent to these ruins, having grown accustomed to seeing them.

(Art of the First World War)

Notes:

Exhibitions

John Singer Sargent, An Exhibition -- Whitney Museum, NY & The Art Institute of Chicago 1986-1987