William Turner Dannat

William Turner Dannat (1853-1929) was an American painter known for his genre scenes and portraits. He was born in New York City to a prominent family. His father, William Stanley Dannat, was a successful lawyer and his mother, Julia Turner Dannat, was a descendant of a prominent New York family.

As a child, Dannat showed a talent for art and received encouragement from his parents. He studied at the National Academy of Design and the Art Students League of New York.

In 1885, Dannat married fellow artist Mary Cassatt's niece, Charlotte Amory Cassatt. The couple had three children together. Dannat's circle of friends included many prominent artists of the time, such as Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, and Childe Hassam.

Dannat had several workplaces throughout his career. He started out working in his father's law office, but after deciding to pursue art full-time, he set up a studio in New York City. He also spent time painting in Europe, particularly in Paris, where he was influenced by the French Impressionist style.

Dannat's technique was known for its attention to detail and emphasis on light and color. He often painted scenes from everyday life, such as marketplaces and street scenes. He also painted portraits of prominent figures of his time, including Theodore Roosevelt and John D. Rockefeller.

Dannat's footprint on the art world can be seen in his many exhibitions and awards. He exhibited at the Paris Salon and the Royal Academy in London, and was awarded a bronze medal at the Exposition Universelle in Paris in 1900.

Here are five of Dannat's most important paintings:

1. "The Flower Seller" (1887) - This painting depicts a young girl selling flowers on a Parisian street. The vibrant colors and attention to detail make it one of Dannat's most celebrated works.

2. "The Fruit Seller" (1892) - Similar to "The Flower Seller," this painting depicts a woman selling fruit on a busy street. The bright colors and lively atmosphere capture the essence of the marketplace.

3. "Portrait of John D. Rockefeller" (1917) - This portrait of the American industrialist was commissioned by the Rockefeller family and is now in the collection of the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C.

4. "The Ferryman" (1883) - This painting depicts a ferryman crossing the Seine River in Paris. The contrast between the dark waters and the brightly lit buildings in the background creates a striking visual effect.

5. "A Paris Market" (1896) - This painting depicts a bustling market scene in Paris. The vibrant colors and bustling activity capture the energy of the marketplace.

Overall, William Turner Dannat was an important figure in the art world of his time, known for his attention to detail, use of color, and depictions of everyday life.