Habibbulah- Indian Royal Barber, W. Luker Junior, Watercolour on paper, 26x50 cms.

This painting forms part of a genre of representations of local individuals engaged in their professional occupations. The characteristic features of these paintings are a fl at background with the main subject occupying the foreground in careful watercolour strokes. The art collection of Rashtrapati Bhavan has several works of art belonging to this genre.
Standing in profi le, Habibbulah in this painting is posing with his ensemble of a naayi (barber). The lucidity of the water colour washes and precise visualisation of Habibbulah’s likeness confi rms Luker’s artistic genius. Clad in a red angrakha and churidaar pyjama, detailed embroidery can be seen around his neck and chest. His pagdi with white and gold folds give status to the emblem in its centre. A broad kamarband fi nds prominence in a twisted pattern. By incorporating subtle colours, a unique blending of the contours of this form represents a contrast with the minimalistic background.
His right hand holds an ustara- an iconic instrument of his profession while the left hand holds a small case, probably occupied with other essentials. With eyes looking away from the spectator, his arched eyebrows are refi ned. His nose lies in conformity with high cheek bones and emphatic chin. His grey beard and long moustache in downward fall is seen atop full lips.

Portfolio Name: Company Paintings in Rashtrapati Bhawan
Source: Lalit Kala Akademi