Artwork

Kaffir Slave Kabul

Kaffir Slave Kabul, by Godfrey Thomas Vigne, watercolor, 1836
Kaffir Slave Kabul, by Godfrey Thomas Vigne, watercolor, 1836

Kaffir Slave Kabul is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist Godfrey Thomas Vigne. It dates from 1836 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Kaffir Slave Kabul is a watercolour drawing by Godfrey Thomas Vigne, depicting a man from the Siyahposh division of the Kafirs, a group from the historic region of Kafiristan in the Hindukush.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a profile portrait of a man with short hair and a plain white collar, representing a member of a pre-Islamic religious group that was forcibly converted to Islam in 1896. The term 'Kafir' reflects their pre-conversion identity.

Technique & Style

The artwork features soft watercolours, with varying levels of detail, from sketchy to smooth. The background is minimal, focusing attention on the subject's features.

History & Provenance

The drawing was created by Vigne, who later published a related narrative in 1840. The piece was acquired in 1971 from the artist's great-nephew and is now part of a collection that includes related works.

Man with Curly Hair
Man with Curly Hair, John Singer Sargent

Artist & collection

Portrait of Godfrey Thomas Vigne

Artist

Godfrey Thomas Vigne

Godfrey Thomas Vigne was an English amateur cricketer and traveller.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Kaffir Slave Kabul?

Kaffir Slave Kabul was painted by Godfrey Thomas Vigne in 1836.

Where can I see Kaffir Slave Kabul?

Kaffir Slave Kabul is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Kaffir Slave Kabul?

Kaffir Slave Kabul is associated with British Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Kaffir Slave Kabul?

Museum-quality prints of Kaffir Slave Kabul are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.