A Hindu ascetic or holy man, performing austerities outside a temple (?). Watercolour, ca. 1880 (?).

The man is supporting his weight on his right knee, left foot and left forefinger. He appears to be wearing a loincloth, and has beads around his neck and in his right hand. His body is covered in ashes and his forehead and upper body are decorated with red streaks. He has disshevelled hair and a dark beard. By his side are his kamandal (sacred pot) and other objects. A golden bell can be glimpsed within the temple (?), and there is foliage in the background