Holding a Hookah c. 19th century

childish illustration

cartoon like

cartoon based

animated style

caricature

flat colour

watercolour illustration

cartoon style

cartoon carciture

cartoon theme

This anonymous 19th century portrait depicts a man seated in a chair, holding a hookah. The subject is dressed in traditional Indian clothing and the painting is a beautiful example of the Company Painting style, which emerged in India during the 18th and 19th centuries as a result of the East India Company's presence. These paintings often depicted scenes of everyday life, portraits of individuals, or mythological subjects. "Holding a Hookah" showcases the skillful brushwork and vibrant colors that are characteristic of Company Painting.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

⋮

The babu, or Indian bureaucrat, was a much parodied figure in the arts. His mannerisms and appearance reflected his engagement with the British world of fashion and etiquette as he climbed the social ladder away from the Indian middle class. Here, he is depicted as a dapper dandy smoking a hookah. He is draped in a chic waistcloth, shawl, sports heeled shoes, and a Prince Albert hairstyle.