Who painted A grass-cutter and his wife?

A grass-cutter and his wife was painted by Unknown in 1805.

Where can I see A grass-cutter and his wife?

A grass-cutter and his wife is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is A grass-cutter and his wife?

A grass-cutter and his wife is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

A grass-cutter and his wife

Unknown , 1805

A grass-cutter and his wife is a paint painting by the Romanticist artist Unknown. It dates from 1805 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1805 painting portrays a grass-cutter and his wife, one of 36 works in an album documenting various trades, occupations, and costumes. The couple is set against a tropical backdrop of palm and other trees.

Subject & Meaning

The painting focuses on a grass-cutting couple, emphasizing their labor through the prominently displayed, heavily laden bundles on their shoulders. Their poised, strain-free postures convey strength and balance in their physical work.

Technique & Style

The artwork employs a simple yet bold color palette, contrasting the bright yellow field and pale blue sky with the earthy tones of the figures. The brushwork captures the subjects' attire and accessories in detail, from the man's warm brown skin and simple waist cloth to the woman's light gray wrap, necklace, and headband.

History & Provenance

Created in 1805 as part of a thematic album, the painting's origins and ownership history prior to its current location are not detailed here.

Context

Part of a collection documenting late 18th-century or early 19th-century occupations and costumes, this piece provides a visual record of a specific trade and its practitioners during that era.