Who painted A barber and his wife?

A barber and his wife was painted by Unknown in 1770.

Where can I see A barber and his wife?

A barber and his wife is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is A barber and his wife?

A barber and his wife is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

A barber and his wife

Unknown , 1770

A barber and his wife is a paint painting by the Rococo painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1770 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

A barber and his wife are depicted in this painting, one of thirty-six works illustrating castes and occupations in South India. The piece features the couple with attributes of their profession.

Subject & Meaning

The painting provides a glimpse into the daily life of a barber and his wife in South India, highlighting their trade through associated tools and attire.

Technique & Style

Characterized by a red border, tangled cloud motif at the top, and heavy looped shadows, this work may be attributed to one of three distinct artistic hands based on background color and figure detail.

History & Provenance

Originally part of an album with a 1799 J. Ruse watermark and a bookplate bearing Joseph Whatley's name and the motto 'Pelle Timorem', the painting's early ownership is documented.