Artwork
Man Making Incense Sticks
Man Making Incense Sticks 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. A painting depicting a man engaged in the traditional occupation of making incense sticks.
About this work
Overview
A painting depicting a man engaged in the traditional occupation of making incense sticks.
Subject & Meaning
The scene shows a man sitting at a low table, carefully rolling incense sticks between his palms, highlighting the quiet dedication and simple tools involved in this everyday trade.
Technique & Style
The artist captures the play of sunlight on the bamboo skewers and the fine white powder on the worker's hands, conveying a sense of intimacy and attention to detail.
History & Provenance
This work is part of a set of 100 paintings illustrating various trades and occupations in Canton, created to satisfy European curiosity about Chinese culture and daily life.
Artist & collection
