Artwork

A Blind Female Singer

A Blind Female Singer, by Puqua, paint, 1790
A Blind Female Singer, by Puqua, paint, 1790

A Blind Female Singer is a paint painting by the Romanticist artist Puqua. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

A Blind Female Singer is a watercolour painting created by Puqua in 1790. It is one of a series of 100 works depicting various occupations in Canton.

Subject & Meaning

The painting features a blind woman, dressed in blue, using a cane for guidance. She is shown with a parasol and fan, her hair styled neatly. The calm expression and quiet pose suggest a depiction of everyday life.

Technique & Style

The work is characterised by soft colours and gentle lines, which draw attention to the subject's serene demeanour. The plain background and focus on the figure indicate an emphasis on capturing a moment of ordinary life.

History & Provenance

The painting was acquired from Parsons & Sons in 1898 and subsequently accessioned into the collection, as documented in the Asia Department registers during a 2022 provenance research project.

Artist & collection

Artist

Puqua

Puqua (b. 1790) was a Guangzhou artist.