An Indian Tradesman, possibly a Peshwa, bust-length in white tunic and blue turban

Horace van Ruith worked in London and Capri, and lived for many years in Italy. He visited India at the invitation of the Gaekwad of Baroda. A number of works painted c.1900 in Bombay are known, including a commemorative portrait of the Bombay High Court Judge, the Hon. Mr. Justice H.J.Parson. A watercolour of the tailor Adalji Ghadiali of Bombay in the collection of the India Office Library bears a strong resemblance to the sitter.
The frame was designed by the artist Sir Mortimer Menpes (1860-1938) who also worked in India.