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The Quartette (Un quatuor) by William Turner Dannat

William Turner Dannat · 1884-01-01

William Turner Dannat's 1892 oil painting, "The Quartette (Un quatuor)," at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, caused some public confusion because of its title. Despite the name, only three figures are visible in the dimly lit scene.

Look closely at the figures: a passionate singer, a contemplative seated woman, and a leaning man in the background. The intense chiaroscuro adds to the mystery, making it unclear what exactly they are reacting to.

Dannat, known for his Spanish-themed works, likely used "quartette" in an older, less common sense. The Metropolitan Museum of Art notes that the term could refer to a game of cards, implying the fourth member is unseen, perhaps even the viewer.

This subtle play on words transforms the scene from a musical performance to a more ambiguous, interactive moment. What do you imagine is happening just out of frame?

Details

The artist specialized in Spanish subjects, like this singer.
The artist specialized in Spanish subjects, like this singer.
They wrote that a 'quartette' could mean a game of cards.
They wrote that a 'quartette' could mean a game of cards.
The strong chiaroscuro creates a theatrical mood and emphasizes the figures' forms and expressions.
The strong chiaroscuro creates a theatrical mood and emphasizes the figures' forms and expressions.
Her composed posture and folded hands create a sense of quiet contemplation or perhaps restrained emotion amidst the scene.
Her composed posture and folded hands create a sense of quiet contemplation or perhaps restrained emotion amidst the scene.
The bright, loosely draped shirt contrasts sharply with the darker tones, highlighting the central figure and suggesting a working-class or informal setting.
The bright, loosely draped shirt contrasts sharply with the darker tones, highlighting the central figure and suggesting a working-class or informal setting.
Transcript

This painting is called “The Quartette.” But there are only three people in the picture. The artist specialized in Spanish subjects, like this singer. Public confusion over the title led to questions. The Metropolitan Museum of Art later clarified the meaning. They wrote that a 'quartette' could mean a game of cards. So, the fourth member is imagined, beyond the canvas.