Artwork

View of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra

View of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, by William Carpenter, paint, 1852
View of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, by William Carpenter, paint, 1852

View of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra is a paint painting by the Patna School of Painting artist William Carpenter. It dates from 1852 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

This painting shows a busy street scene in Fatehpur Sikri, India. The buildings are bathed in warm sunlight. People walk and chat like it's a normal day.

Carpenter painted this in 1852 while traveling India. His work stands out for its lively details and bright light. He captured everyday life with accuracy and energy.

Check out more of Carpenter’s work at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

This 1852 watercolour painting by William Carpenter depicts a vibrant street scene in Fatehpur Sikri, India, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing everyday life and architectural details.

Technique & Style

The painting is executed in warm colours, evoking a sense of gentle romanticism. Carpenter's use of light and colour brings the scene to life, with buildings bathed in sunlight and people engaged in daily activities.

History & Provenance

The painting was created during Carpenter's travels in India from 1850 to 1856. It was later exhibited in a one-man show at the South Kensington Museum in 1881, and subsequently acquired by the V&A as part of a collection of 275 paintings.

Artist & collection

Artist

William Carpenter

William Carpenter (1818–1899) was an English watercolour artist. He travelled for six or seven years in the 1850s painting scenes of India, its people and its life. The Victoria and Albert Museum bought over 280 of his…