A Woman Pining for her Lover, anonymous, c. 1700 - c. 1750
bodycolour, with pen and black ink and gold, h 256mm × w 214mm More details
The pose of the seated figure conveys intense longing. In front of her is a plate of betel quids (leaves that can be chewed), a reference to the arrival of her expected lover. The prepared bed, the separated pairs of birds, and the pollinating insects, however, all point to an unfaithful partner.
