Artwork
A Muslim man and his wife
A Muslim man 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. This painting is one of a series depicting various castes and occupations in South India.
About this work
Overview
This painting is one of a series depicting various castes and occupations in South India. It shows a man and woman seated together, identified by an English inscription on the red border.
Subject & Meaning
The couple is shown with attributes related to their trade: the man holds a writing instrument, while the woman balances a metal tray on her head, suggesting their occupation.
Technique & Style
The painting features a red border, a strip of cloud at the top, and heavy looped shadows under the figures' feet, creating a sense of depth. The artist used a dark green ground and simple, pale-colored clothing for the figures.
History & Provenance
The painting was part of an album with a watermark dated 1799 and a bookplate bearing the name Joseph Whatley. The series appears to be the work of multiple artists, with varying styles and backgrounds.
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
A Muslim Man and woman
A clerk and his wife
An interpreter and his wife
A Muslim ascetic and his wife
A Maratha couple
A barber and his wife
A Brahmin fortune-teller and his wife
A Tanjore man in a white 'jama' holding 'pan' .
A warrior and his wife
A Barber holding a razor
A Tanjore couple
A necklace-seller and his wife