Artwork
Bangle-seller and his wife
Bangle-seller and his wife is a paint painting by the Romanticist artist Unknown. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This painting portrays a bangle-seller and his wife, part of a series of sixteen works depicting various castes and occupations. Characterized by a simple, dual-tone background, the piece captures the couple in a straightforward, representative manner.
Subject & Meaning
The subjects are shown standing together, engaging in their trade: the barefoot man in white holds a bundle of bangles, while the woman in dark blue with red trim and gold jewelry holds a small, unspecified object, likely related to their bangle-selling activity. The scene implies a glimpse into their daily life and profession.
Technique & Style
The painting features a plain, yellow background with a dark blue base, contrasting with the subjects' attire. The style is realistic and straightforward, focusing on clearly depicting the couple and their occupation without elaborate composition or setting.
History & Provenance
Originally part of the India Museum's collection, the painting was transferred in 1879 and added to the current collection in 1880, as part of the broader series on castes and occupations.
Context
Created as one of sixteen pieces, this work is contextualized within a larger project to illustrate various Indian castes and their professions during the period, suggesting a documentary or ethnographic intent.
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
