Artwork

The family of a court interpreter

The family of a court interpreter, by Unknown, watercolor, 1750
The family of a court interpreter, by Unknown, watercolor, 1750

The family of a court interpreter is a watercolor work on paper by the Rococo painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. A watercolour portrait depicts a mother with her two children, dressed in traditional attire, in a domestic setting.

About this work

Overview

A watercolour portrait depicts a mother with her two children, dressed in traditional attire, in a domestic setting.

Subject & Meaning

The family's clothing and surroundings suggest they are from a wealthy minority community in Istanbul, possibly Greek or Armenian. The boy's attire indicates his father's profession as a court interpreter, a prestigious role.

Technique & Style

The painter's style is reminiscent of Raphael the Armenian, a court painter to the Ottoman sultans. The use of chiaroscuro adds depth to the scene, while the depiction of luxurious furnishings and clothing highlights the family's wealth.

Context

The family's surroundings feature imported luxury goods, such as French silk and a rococo marble-topped side table, indicating their high social status.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known