Poster Print > Arts > Watercolor paintings > Portrait watercolors > Figure painting in watercolor
Poster Print : An African Lyre Player, c. 1640-1660. Creator: Unknown
Poster 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
A4 (29.7 x 21cm) Poster Print
Step back in time with our exquisite An African Lyre Player poster print from the Media Storehouse collection. This captivating artwork, dating back to the 1640s-1660s, showcases an enigmatic figure strumming an African lyre. The intricate details and rich colors bring the past to life, making this a stunning addition to any wall. Unknown in origin, this piece may be a portrait of a historical figure or a representation of a musician from the past. Regardless, it's a captivating glimpse into history, brought to you by Heritage Images through Media Storehouse.
Premium quality poster prints are printed on luxurious semi-gloss satin 270 gsm paper. Our meticulously crafted poster prints offer an affordable option for decorating any space, making them ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, offices and beyond. To ensure your poster arrives in good condition, we roll and send them in strong mailing tubes.
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Estimated Product Size is 21.6cm x 30.3cm (8.5" x 11.9")
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.
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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.
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