A large mezzotint of a diplomatic procession in 1788, led by Haider Beg, an official of the princely state of Oudh, was published by Robert Laurie & James­ Whittle, London, on this day. The original painting by Johann Zoffany, the German-born painter known for his portrayal of Indian scenes, was completed by 1795 and had been exhibited at the Royal Academy in London in 1796.

The painting was titled “Embassy of Hyderbeck (Hyder Beg) to Calcutta”. The official was sent by the Nawab to meet Lord Cornwallis, Governor-General, newly arrived in Calcutta.

Zoffany spent six years travelling in India during the 1780s, after which he returned to England and painted numerous scenes of Indian life. He had witnessed the procession from Oudh in Patna and had included himself in the painting as an onlooker on horseback.

The painting was later presented to the Victoria Memorial, Calcutta.

For suggestions on dates/events mail us at: yesterdate@abp.in