Depictions of European figures became widespread in North Indian painting as early as the 16th century, thanks to the paintings and prints that Emperor Akbar received from foreign ambassadors and visitors. These depictions were skillfully copied and reworked by court artists attracted by themes and stylistic features that were unusual to them. European subjects were also depicted in the Rajput courts, including portraits of such illustrious figures as the Dutch emissary Johan Josua Ketelaar visiting Udaipur in 1711 or Colonel James Tod (1782–1835) who was the British agent of Rajasthan between 1818 and 1822. The theme developed further with depictions of male and female figures portrayed both in official and intimate moments and sometimes even in awkward caricatures. The painting in question portrays a Portuguese or Dutch figure wearing a distinctive headdress that, curiously enough, is also seen in some depictions of female figures. The hawk resting on the arm was a common element of court portraiture while the presence of a ram is an extravagance that subtly suggests that this painting is a parody.

19 x 15.5 cm