A Nobleman on Horseback, India, Mughal, late 17th century

gouache with gold on paper, with some evidence of retouching

Background in generally fair condition. Some discoloration of pigments in some areas. Occasional patches of flaking. Faces repainted. Clothing and horse possibly partially repainted. As viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This is a fine portrait of a Mughal nobleman riding to the hunt. Stylistically it relates to many other late-seventeenth-century portraits, such as a mounted portrait of Khan Jahan Bahadur ascribed to Hunhar of circa 1690 (British Library, India Office Collections, Johnson Album 18, 12, see Losty and Roy 2012, fig.99; Falk and Archer 1981, no.133) and a standing portrait of Azim al-Shan of circa 1695 (British Library, IOL Collections, Johnson Album 2, 4, see Losty and Roy 2012, fig.100; Falk and Archer 1981, no.148). The physiognomy of the main figure of the present work bears some resemblance to Allahvardi Khan as depicted in another hunting scene of circa 1660 (op.cit., fig.93 and no.103). However, the faces and perhaps some of the clothing and horse of the present work may have been repainted at a later date.