Artwork
A Tanjore couple
A Tanjore couple is a paint painting by the Patna School of Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1770 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This painting is one of thirty-six works depicting various castes and occupations in South India.
About this work
Overview
This painting is one of thirty-six works depicting various castes and occupations in South India. It portrays a man and woman, presumably a couple, associated with their trade through specific attributes.
Subject & Meaning
The couple is shown in traditional attire with serious expressions, surrounded by items indicative of their profession. The depiction offers insight into their daily life and occupational identity.
Technique & Style
The work features a red border, a distinctive tangled cloud motif at the top, and heavy looped shadows under the figures. The style is characterized by the use of chiaroscuro, a technique employing strong contrasts of light and dark.
History & Provenance
The painting was part of an album with a 1799 J. Ruse watermark and a bookplate bearing Joseph Whatley's name and the Latin motto 'Pelle Timorem'. The series shows stylistic variations, suggesting contribution by three different artists.
Context
Created as part of a larger set documenting South Indian castes and occupations, this painting reflects 18th-century interest in systematically representing regional identities and professions.
Legacy
As part of a comprehensive series, the painting contributes to historical understanding of South Indian societal structure and traditional occupations during the late 18th century.
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
