The Black & Gold

The suntanned complexion of this officer suggests his portrait may have been painted whilst stationed in India during the early years of the 19th century. At that time several British miniature artists had set up studios in India as there was great demand for miniature portraits that were easy to send home to relatives.

The officer wears a black and dark green coat heavy with gold braid and with a white cross belt and a yellow and pink cummerbund suggestive perhaps of the 11th Hussars (Prince Albert’s Own). From 1819 they were based in India where they remained until 1836.

There is a small area of light rubbing to the background over one shoulder but otherwise the portrait is in good condition. It is housed in a later rose gilt frame that is enclosed on the back.