Barburdar, punkah wallah or fan bearer
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Barburdar, punkah wallah or fan bearer
Barburdar, punkah wallah or fan bearer.. handcolored copperplate engraving by an unknown artist from Asiatic Costumes, Ackermann, London, 1828
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Media ID 14206287
© Florilegius / Mary Evans
Asiaticcostumes Britishraj Colony Handcoloredcopperplate Loincloth Turban
EDITORS COMMENTS
This handcolored copperplate engraving, titled 'Barburdar or Punkah Wallah,' depicts a native attendant from the Indian subcontinent, standing beside a palm leaf fan, ready to cool down his employer during the sweltering summer heat. The Barburdar, also known as a Punkah Wallah or Fan Bearer, was an essential figure in the British Raj during the colonial era. The Barburdar is dressed in a simple loincloth and a turban adorned with intricate patterns, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of India. He holds a large palm leaf fan, a traditional cooling device used in South Asian countries for centuries. The fan, made from the fronds of the Palmyra palm tree, was a symbol of status and luxury, making the Barburdar an indispensable servant for the British elite. The engraving, part of the 'Asiatic Costumes' series by Ackermann of London, published in 1828, offers a glimpse into the historical context of the British Raj in India. The image underscores the complex power dynamics between the colonizers and the colonized, with the Barburdar representing the subjugated native population. The intricate details of the engraving, from the textures of the loincloth to the patterns on the turban, highlight the skill and artistry of the unknown artist. The Barburdar's presence in this engraving serves as a reminder of the rich cultural exchange that took place during the colonial era. The image offers a window into the past, providing insights into the lives of those who lived under the British Raj and the role they played in shaping the history of the Indian subcontinent.
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