Object types painting (scope note | all objects)

Materials mica (all objects) Techniques painted (scope note | all objects) Place (findspot) Found/Acquired Patna (?) (scope note | all objects) (Asia,South Asia,India,Bihar (state),Patna) Date 19thC Schools /Styles Company School (scope note | all objects)

Description A blacksmith seated on the ground, which is indicated by a band of tan paint along the base of the mica sheet. In front of him is his forge and bellows which he can pump using a chain which hangs by his head. He wears a white top and dhoti and a red shawl over his shoulders. He holds a hammer in his right hand which is raised above his head. In his left hand he holds a glowing piece of metal on an anvil. On the floor in front of the smith and on the box on his left are implements of his trade and also items which he has made. It appears he is making blades – some of which have already been polished.

Curator's comments In set with 1989,1020,0.2.4 In set with 1989,1020,0.2.6

This painting comes from a collection of sixteen mica paintings (1989,1020,0.2.1-16) purchased by the museum in 1989. The collection is made up of paintings taken from various different sets of mica paintings showing trades and occupations and transportation. Such sets were mass produced from the mid 18th century to the mid 19th century mainly for the European market in India.

Subject tool/implement (scope note | all objects)