Artwork

One of four drawings of inhabitants of Delhi.

One of four drawings of inhabitants of Delhi., by Faiz Ali Khan, paint, 1815
One of four drawings of inhabitants of Delhi., by Faiz Ali Khan, paint, 1815

One of four drawings of inhabitants of Delhi. is a paint painting by the Patna School of Painting artist Faiz Ali Khan. It dates from 1815 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

The artist painted them in bright colors to show their importance.

This painting shows seven Indian ascetics and their animals. One man wears tassels on his waist. Another carries a big umbrella. A third is wrapped in a huge turban. Three dogs and five monkeys walk beside them.

These men were famous street characters in Delhi around 1815. Their wild clothes made them stand out. The artist painted them in bright colors to show their importance.

Check out more works by Faiz Ali Khan.

Overview

This painting is one of a set of four depicting inhabitants of Delhi around 1815, possibly created by Faiz Ali Khan.

Subject & Meaning

The work shows seven ascetics and their attendant, dressed in elaborate attire, including tassels, a large umbrella, and a huge turban. One figure, 'Mr Flowery Man', is identified as Sarhaj, a Brahmin from Gokal, Brindaban.

Technique & Style

The painting exemplifies the 'Company painting' style, blending traditional Indian artistic elements with Western conventions and techniques.

Context

Produced by Indian artists for European residents, particularly British East India Company employees, such paintings often represented a fusion of cultural influences.

Artist & collection

Artist

Faiz Ali Khan

Nawab Faiz Ali Khan Bahadur, was a ruler of the princely state of Banganapalle, including the Chenchelimala territory.