DrawingsIndian19th century

Sketches: European Ladies (recto); Embracing Couple (verso) Inscribed: "Dresses Worn in the Month of Kartik" [Oct.-Nov.]

19th century

Description

The recto side depicts a series of sketches of European women wearing a variety of dresses, hats, and hairstyles. They are shown from the front, back, in profile, and as busts. The inscription states, “Dresses worn in the month of Kartik”. Kartik is a Hindu calendar month that overlaps October and November. At the bottom is a sketch of an outstretched arm with a bird of prey perched on it. The verso side depicts a European couple embracing. The male figure stands behind the female figure with his arms around her. Her hands hold onto a fan in that rests in front of her.

Classification

Drawings

Medium

Ink and opaque watercolor on paper

Culture

Indian

Century

19th century

Division

Asian and Mediterranean Art

Department

Department of Islamic & Later Indian Art

Dimensions

17 x 24.5 cm (6 11/16 x 9 5/8 in.)

Provenance

Stuart Cary Welch (by 1973 - 2008,) by descent; to his estate (2008-2009,) gift; to Harvard Art Museum. Notes: Object was part of temporary loan to Museum in 1973.