Four Commedia dell'Arte Figures: Harlequin "en femme," Mezzetin(?), Scaramouche, and Harlequin
1711
watercolor
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1711
watercolor
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This image shows a sketch of four figures from the Commedia dell'Arte, a theatrical genre. The figures are dressed in various costumes, with one wearing a mask and another holding a sword. The sketch is done in pen and ink with gray wash over graphite on laid paper. The figures appear to be in a playful or dramatic pose, with one figure leaning on another. The sketch is detailed, with intricate lines and shading that give the figures depth and texture. The sketch is an example of Baroque art, characterized by its use of dramatic lighting and intense emotions. The artist, Claude Gillot, was a French painter and engraver who was known for his work in this style.
