Artwork
study of a carnation plant
study of a carnation plant is a paint painting by Unknown. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This painting is a detailed study of a carnation plant, executed in opaque watercolour on paper. It is part of the Small Clive Album, a collection of Mughal miniatures and botanical studies.
Subject & Meaning
The work depicts three orange carnation flowers and buds, along with twisting pinnate leaves, set against a plain background. The focus is solely on the plant, suggesting the painting was created to study its appearance.
Technique & Style
The painting features flat, opaque colours with red hatching used to outline the flowers. The composition is framed by a simple border, with gilded edges and a beige textile gutter on one side.
History & Provenance
The Small Clive Album, which contains this painting, is believed to have been presented to Lord Clive by Shuja ud-Daula, Nawab of Avadh, during Clive's visit to India between 1765 and 1767.
Artist & collection
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