Artwork
A washerman and his wife
A washerman 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 part of a series depicting various occupations and castes in South India.
About this work
Overview
This painting is part of a series depicting various occupations and castes in South India. It shows a man and woman, likely a washerman and his wife, surrounded by the tools of their trade.
Subject & Meaning
The figures are identified by an English inscription on the border, which names their occupation. The scene provides insight into the daily life and activities of a specific caste or profession.
Technique & Style
The painting features a red border, a characteristic strip of cloud at the top, and heavy shadows attached to the figures' feet. The style is consistent with others in the series, although variations in figure drawing and background color suggest multiple artists were involved.
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 likely contained 36 similar paintings, all documenting various occupations and castes.
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
