Portrait of a Stallion

mid-19th century

Horses were important assets for the warrior-kings of India, and to own fine steeds was a mark of wealth and good taste. This image of a powerful horse with extensive ornamental coverings is likely a portrait of an actual stallion owned by a ruler. Based on subtle details of style we can guess that the painting was made in central Rajasthan, around the capital city of Ajmer, but similar horse portraits were painted in several areas of India.