Artwork
A tribal couple
A tribal couple 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 part of a series depicting various castes and occupations in South India.
About this work
Overview
This painting is part of a series depicting various castes and occupations in South India. It shows a tribal couple with the tools and attire associated with their trade.
Subject & Meaning
The couple is dressed in traditional clothing and holds items related to their work, conveying their profession and social status within their community.
Technique & Style
The painting features a red border, a strip of tangled cloud at the top, and heavy looped shadows attached to the figures' feet, creating a sense of depth. The style is consistent with other paintings in the series, although variations in figure drawing and background color suggest multiple artists.
History & Provenance
The painting was originally part of an album with a watermark dated 1799 and a bookplate bearing the name Joseph Whatley. The album contained thirty-six similar paintings, all documenting different castes and occupations.
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
