Artwork

A water-carrier

A water-carrier, by Unknown, paint, 1826
A water-carrier, by Unknown, paint, 1826

A water-carrier is a paint painting by the Realist artist Unknown. It dates from 1826 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This painting depicts a water-carrier transporting water on a cow, accompanied by a boy. The scene is rendered in a simple and flat style using soft watercolor strokes.

Subject & Meaning

The water-carrier is shown with two large leather water bags, known as matkas and pukhals, strapped to the cow's back, and a smaller one on the ground. The image illustrates a traditional occupation and method of transporting water.

Technique & Style

The painting features soft watercolor strokes and a flat composition, creating a straightforward representation of the scene.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known