Item ST 39842 Indian Figure - Bhecaty or Water Carrier, Pune, Clay, circa 1867

Summary

Alternative Names: Poonah Figure, Poona Figure

This clay figure of a Bhecaty or Water Carrier was made in Pune in India in the latter half of the nineteenth century. It was exhibited as part of a group of figures representing various castes, occupations and religious sects. Such figures were exhibited at International Exhibitions and often won awards. This figure was accessioned by the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in 1867 as a purchase from Stubb and Co.

Physical Description

Figure of a man on a wooden base. The base is painted red turned wood. The figure is plaster/composition modeled over wooden dowels, it is painted with a dark brown skin tone and dressed in fabric. His garments consist of a red hat, a white shirt with a red and blue pattern, a white cotton sash, white trousers and red painted shoes. He is carrying a brown bag over his left shoulder.