Artwork
A Barber
A Barber is a paint painting by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1860 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
A Barber is a painting depicting a man identified as a barber by the tool he holds. The work is part of a series of occupation-themed paintings.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is shown wearing a blue coat, red turban, and striped white pants, standing in a simple landscape. His attire and pose capture a moment of everyday life, conveying a sense of realism.
Technique & Style
The painting reflects the influence of European styles on local Indian artists, resulting in a realistic representation of Indian life. The series to which it belongs was produced in Trichinopoly, South India, during the period of British East India Company patronage.
Context
The series of 15 occupation-themed paintings, including A Barber, was created under the patronage of the British East India Company, which encouraged local artists to adopt European painting techniques.
Artist & collection
Domestic Scene
Giacomo and Cardinal Marco, investing Andrea, Abbot of San Zeno, with his Benefice
The Nymph of Fontainebleau
Portrait of a Woman
Madonna and Child with Saints in the Enclosed Garden
Venus and Minerva
Family Group of Four on Sofa
Wall painting from Room H of the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale
Musician with cymbals
One of seventy-two paintings of occupations.
A servant holding an umbrella
A Bearer
An Ascetic
One of Fifteen drawings depicting household servants
One of seventeen paintings of occupations, especially domestic servants.
An Indian Man
One of twelve paintings depicting occupations.
One of eighteen paintings of trades and domestic servants.