Artwork
A snake charmer and his wife
A snake charmer and his wife is a paint painting by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
A snake charmer and his wife are depicted in this painting, created in the Company Style, a genre of Indian art produced for European patrons.
Subject & Meaning
The scene shows a snake charmer playing a musical instrument, accompanied by his seated wife, illustrating a traditional Indian occupation and daily life.
Technique & Style
The painting employs chiaroscuro, an artistic technique using contrasting light and dark to create depth and visual interest.
Context
Company Style paintings often documented Indian trades, castes, and entertainers, serving as a visual record of Indian life for European audiences.
Artist & collection
