Antique Indian Company School Painting of a Messenger, 1835-1880

Small gouache painting on a sheet of mica (a mineral) with the word "chuprassie" written in the upper left corner which identifies the man as an important attendant or messenger in the household of an Indian landowner.  During the days of the British Raj paintings such as this one were created to document the various occupations for the British market.  In 19th century hammered metal frame with Prince of Wales feathers in each corner, India, 19th century

Height 15cm  (6 inches)

Width 10cm  (4 inches)