Born near Boston, Weeks began his artistic career in 1869 with a sketching trip to Florida and South America. He later studied in Paris where he became interested in an Oriental subject matter.

Two Nautch Girls, 1883-84, has been painted with loose, broad brushstrokes of bold colors that add a distinct texture to the cloth, drum, and jewelry worn by the two girls. They are both elegantly dressed in an Oriental style, emphasizing Week’s preferred subject matter.