Subject Matter

The painting features Nautch girls, who were professional dancers and musicians, and their mode of transportation, a bullock cart or "gharry." These subjects were favorites of Weeks, reflecting his interest in the local culture and daily life of the people he encountered during his travels.

Location and Inspiration

The scene is set in Ahmedabad, Gujarat state, India. Weeks traveled to India in 1883, after spending years in North Africa, and his experiences in India heavily influenced his work. He was particularly drawn to the details of Indian architecture, dress, and customs, which are often meticulously depicted in his paintings.

Artistic Method

Weeks was both a painter and a photographer. He used his photographs to capture the rich details of Indian architecture and culture, which he would later incorporate into his paintings. This method allowed him to bring a high level of accuracy and detail to his work.

Style and Impact

Weeks' paintings, including Nautch girls and bullock gharry, Ahmedabad. helped to introduce American patrons to the culture and everyday life of India, which was largely unfamiliar to them at the time. His work is characterized by its vivid depiction of local customs, architecture, and the daily lives of ordinary people.