Who painted A shoemaker and his wife?

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

Where can I see A shoemaker and his wife?

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

What movement is A shoemaker and his wife?

A shoemaker and his wife is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

A shoemaker and his wife

Unknown , 1770

A shoemaker 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

This painting depicts a shoemaker and his wife engaged in their occupation, surrounded by the tools of their trade. It is part of a collection of thirty-six paintings illustrating various castes and occupations in South India.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows the shoemaker working on a shoe while his wife sews, conveying a sense of industriousness. The depiction of the couple with the attributes of their trade highlights their profession and social role.

Technique & Style

The painting features a red border, a strip of cloud at the top, and heavy shadows attached to the figures' feet, characteristics shared with the other paintings in the series. The use of chiaroscuro, evident in the strong contrasts of light and dark, adds depth to the scene.

History & Provenance

The painting was originally part of an album with a watermark dated 1799 and a bookplate bearing the name Joseph Whatley. This suggests the paintings were carefully collected and preserved.