Artwork
A woman drawing water from a well
A woman drawing water from a well is a paint painting by the Impressionist artist Bani Lal. It dates from 1880 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This 1880 watercolour painting by Bani Lal captures a serene daily scene of women gathering water from a shallow body of water, accompanied by a distant figure approaching trees on a sandy hill.
Subject & Meaning
The painting focuses on the mundane yet essential task of water collection, portraying three women in vibrant red and white attire engaged in filling clay pots, while a fourth figure walks in the background, emphasizing the ordinary and communal nature of the activity.
Technique & Style
Executed in soft, earthy tones, the watercolour contrasts the muted landscape and water with the bold red clothing of the women, creating a sense of calm and highlighting the subjects through colour.
History & Provenance
Created in 1880 by Bani Lal, specific details about the painting's history and ownership prior to its current location are not provided.
Context
The scene reflects everyday life, likely in a rural or semi-rural setting, given the presence of a shallow water source and surrounding natural landscape.
Artist & collection
Artist
