Afternoon Embroidery Charulata; gouache watercolour on watercolour paper

Afternoon Embroidery - Charulata; gouache watercolour on watercolour paper, 370 X 540mm; Unframed 
 
This is a painting of Charulata. She is an extremely talented lady with artist skills. In the afternoon she pursues her love for sewing and embroidery, while chitchatting with the other ladies in the house. 
 
Charulata is a fictitious character is adapted from RabindranathTagore's famous short story "The broken nest”, that was later made into a movie by Satyajit Ray. It portrays the lonely life of the elite bengali women in the 19th century. I was very intrigued by the life of elite Indian women in the past. Although they had all luxuries, yet they had to live a life caged in traditions and social rules. However, women would find ways to express themselves through poetry and art. Through this painting I wanted to express my understanding of their lives.  
 
The medium used is watercolour gouache and the style is inspired from the folk art of Bengal's famous Kalighat paintings. The saree and jewellery of Charulata is adopted from contemporary designs blended into the dressing style of 19th century bengali women.
 
This painting gives a glimpse of Indian culture and folk art. Hope you like it
 
Thanks 
Trivita