Artwork

A Silversmith

A Silversmith, by Puqua, paint, 1790
A Silversmith, by Puqua, paint, 1790

A Silversmith 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 Silversmith is a painting by Puqua, created in 1790. It depicts a craftsman at work.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows a man, dressed in a light blue robe and black hat, intently working at a desk surrounded by tools. He is carefully shaping metal into intricate forms, suggesting a high level of skill and attention to detail.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, drawing the viewer's eye into the scene and emphasizing the craftsman's precise work.

History & Provenance

The painting was acquired from Parsons & Sons in 1898, as documented in the Asia Department registers following a 2022 provenance research project.

Artist & collection

Artist

Puqua

Puqua (b. 1790) was a Guangzhou artist.