Artwork
Four Singing Commedia Dell'Arte Characters

Four Singing Commedia Dell'Arte Characters is a watercolor drawing by the Baroque artist Claude Gillot. It dates from 1711 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
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- Inscribed:upper left in pen and black ink: XX
About this work
Overview
Four Singing Commedia Dell'Arte Characters is a drawing created by Claude Gillot in 1711. The work is executed in pen and black ink with gray wash over graphite on laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts four figures in commedia dell'arte costumes, characterized by exaggerated poses and attire. The characters are engaged in musical activities, with one playing a violin and the others appearing to sing or dance.
Technique & Style
Gillot's use of simple lines and muted colors, primarily gray and black, conveys a sense of spontaneity. The irregular trimming and mounting of the drawing on an old album sheet suggest it was originally part of a collection or sketchbook.
Context
The work reflects Gillot's interest in theatrical themes, which was influential in early 18th-century French art. The commedia dell'arte tradition, depicted in the drawing, was a popular source of inspiration for artists during this period.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Claude Gillot (April 27, 1673 – May 4, 1722) was a French painter, printmaker, and illustrator, best known as the master of Watteau and Lancret.

















