Metal Print > Arts > Watercolor paintings > Portrait watercolors > Figure painting in watercolor
Metal Print : An African Lyre Player, c. 1640-1660. Creator: Unknown
Metal Prints from Heritage Images
An African Lyre Player, c. 1640-1660. Creator: Unknown
An African Lyre Player, c. 1640-1660. The anonymity of the subject of this painting obscures whether this is a portrait of a historical person, or a generic depiction of a musician. The instrument in his hands is a bowl lyre, called a nanga, of the type from Nubia in northeastern Africa. Many Africans, mainly from Ethiopia, settled in the Deccan, on the western coast of southern India, where they found employment as soldiers, mercenaries, and administrators. While stereotypical associations of Africans with music and dance persist in this Deccani album page, the figure is well dressed and less caricatured than the painting from 100 years earlier of the dancing Zangi in the Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot)
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 19616372
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
And Gold On Paper Deccan Opaque Watercolour Recto
10"x8" (25x20cm) Table Top Metal Print
Experience the rich cultural heritage of the past with our exquisite Metal Prints featuring an African Lyre Player, circa 1640-1660. This captivating artwork, sourced from Heritage Images, showcases the timeless beauty and artistry of an unknown subject playing a lyre. The intricate details of the painting are brought to life through our premium metal print technology, ensuring vibrant colors and stunning clarity. Add this unique and thought-provoking piece to your home or office decor, and let the history and mystery of this African musician inspire you every day.
Table Top Metal Prints feature rounded corners and an easel back for easy display. Available in two sizes, 18x13cm (7x5) or 25x20cm (10x8). Lightweight and vibrant, they are perfect for displaying artwork and are guaranteed to add style to any desk or table top. The unique material is fade, moisture, chemical and scratch resistant to help ensure this art lasts a lifetime.
Made with durable metal and luxurious printing techniques, metal prints bring images to life and add a modern touch to any space
Estimated Product Size is 20.3cm x 25.4cm (8" x 10")
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with landscape (horizontal) or portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> Ethiopia (Abyssinia)
> Related Images
> Africa
> Ethiopia
> Related Images
> Africa
> Related Images
> Animals
> Mammals
> Muridae
> Western Mouse
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Watercolor paintings
> Fine art
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Watercolor paintings
> Portrait paintings
> Arts
> Watercolor paintings
> Portrait watercolors
> Figure painting in watercolor
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the essence of an African Lyre Player, dating back to the mid-17th century. The identity of the subject remains a mystery, leaving us to wonder if this is a portrait of a specific individual or simply a representation of a talented musician. The focal point of this image is undoubtedly the instrument in his hands - a bowl lyre known as a nanga, originating from Nubia in northeastern Africa. Its unique design and intricate craftsmanship speak volumes about the rich musical heritage that has been passed down through generations. Interestingly, this painting sheds light on an intriguing historical connection between Africa and India. During this period, numerous Africans migrated to the Deccan region on India's western coast. They found employment as soldiers, mercenaries, and administrators, contributing their skills and talents to Indian society. While some stereotypical associations persist regarding Africans and their affinity for music and dance, it is important to note that this depiction portrays our lyre player with dignity and respect. He appears well-dressed and less caricatured compared to earlier artworks such as "The Dancing Zangi" from the Tuti-nama collection. Preserved by The Cleveland Museum of Art, this remarkable piece showcases not only artistic excellence but also serves as a testament to cultural exchange throughout history. It reminds us that art has no boundaries when it comes to celebrating diversity and appreciating shared human experiences across continents.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.