Artwork

A Clog Maker

A Clog Maker, by Puqua, paint, 1790
A Clog Maker, by Puqua, paint, 1790

A Clog Maker is a paint painting by the Patna School of Painting artist Puqua. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

A Clog Maker is a painting from a series of 100 works depicting various occupations in Canton.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows a man engaged in carving a wooden clog, with light highlighting his hands, set against a plain dark background. It is one of a set created to illustrate the daily work of people in different trades.

Technique & Style

The artist demonstrates attention to detail, particularly in the rendering of the clog maker's tools and the texture of the wood grain.

History & Provenance

The painting was created for European clients interested in understanding Chinese culture and occupations.

Artist & collection

Artist

Puqua

Puqua (b. 1790) was a Guangzhou artist.