A bay horse standing with a groom

Shaikh Muhammad Amir of Karraya was an influential artist working for the British in Calcutta during the 19th Century, in a time of great prosperity. He delighted his patrons with paintings of their houses, carriages, horses and servants. In deference to Western traditions he introduced shadows into his art, and similar ploys that are incorporated for their aesthetic rather than logical value. One of his best known clients was the businessman, Thomas Holroyd, for whom he executed many of these scenes; the album of paintings made for him by the artist were presented to the Oriental Club in 1839, and are now in public and private collections.

A comparable work by Shaikh Muhammad Amir of Karraya, depicting a horse and groom, was sold in Christie's, London, 5 October 1999, lot 114 (£23,000).