Artwork
Man Selling Mutton
Man Selling Mutton 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
Man Selling Mutton 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 shows a vendor standing behind a bamboo pole supported by tripods, with animal parts, including mutton, hanging from it. His traditional Chinese attire and the display suggest he is selling meat or other goods.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by attention to detail and a muted colour palette, lending it a realistic quality.
History & Provenance
The painting was acquired from Parsons & Sons and accessioned into the collection in 1898, as documented in the Asia Department registers following a 2022 provenance research project.
Artist & collection
