Artwork

Depictions of a Eastern peregrine falcon and Cherrug falcon of Northern India

Depictions of a Eastern peregrine falcon and Cherrug falcon of Northern India is a paint painting by the Patna School of Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1820 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This watercolor painting from 1820 depicts a falcon, likely either an Eastern peregrine or Cherrug falcon native to Northern India.

About this work

Overview

This watercolor painting from 1820 depicts a falcon, likely either an Eastern peregrine or Cherrug falcon native to Northern India. The artwork is one of a pair and is now part of a collection acquired through donation.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows a single bird perched on a thin branch, with dark feathers and lighter markings. A loop of string is wrapped around its legs, and a faded label nearby reads 'carag.' The image may be a study or illustration from a larger work, given its worn and torn appearance.

Technique & Style

The watercolor is executed on aged paper, now browned and smudged at the edges. Faded writing is visible in the corners, suggesting the sheet was once part of a bound volume or collection of similar studies.

History & Provenance

The painting was acquired in 1929 as part of a donation by Robert Scott Greenshields, who served in the Indian Civil Service in Bengal and Assam from 1879 to 1910.