ATTRIBUTABLE TO SHAYKH MUHAMMAD AMIR OF KARRAYA OR HIS STUDIO, CALCUTTA, INDIA, CIRCA 1840

Shaykh Muhammad Amir of Karraya (fl.1830-50) was an influential artist who worked for the British in Calcutta during the 19th century in a time of great prosperity. He delighted patrons with paintings of their houses, servants, carriages and horses. 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. An album of paintings that were made for him by Shaykh Muhammad Amir was presented to the Oriental Club in 1839 - it has now been split and is in public and private collections.

For another work by Shaykh Muhammad Amir in the present sale and a short discussion on the artist, please see lot 317, lot 318 and lot 321 in this sale.