Muhammad Ali Khan (1717/1718–1795), Nawab of Arcot
1774
oil
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1774
oil
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
The painting depicts a man standing in a courtyard, dressed in a white robe and a gold jacket adorned with intricate embroidery. He wears a turban on his head, and his right hand grasps a sword with an ornate hilt. The background features a cloudy sky, with trees visible in the distance. A notable detail is the man's attire, which suggests a high social status. The painting's style is characterized by its use of rich colors and attention to detail. The artist, Tilly Kettle, is known for his portraits of British colonial officials and Indian rulers, and this painting is a fine example of his work.
