General Stibbert and his staff at his headquarters in Calcutta, 1783, John Zoffany, Oil on Canvas, 142x180 cms.

John Zoffany, born in 1733 was a German neoclassical painter. He undertook an initial period of study in a sculptor’s workshop in Ellwangen and later with the artist Martin Speer. Renowned for his individualistic style, he got major commissions from 1764 onwards. As one of the founding members of the new Royal Academy in 1769, Zoffany was revered for his theatrical portraits which had important actors as their subjects. He travelled to India several times and lived in Lucknow for some time. This painting represents Major- General Giles Stibberts, Commander-in-Chief in India in 1782, seated with his staff at his residence in Fort William, Calcutta. Sir William Foster is quoted in the 1931 catalogue authored by Sir Evan Cotton, “It represents Brigadier- General Giles Stibbert, seated in a room at his headquarters and listening to a report read by Muhammadan interpreter. Five other offi cers, two sitting and three standing, help to make up that group...” Seated towards the right of the table, General Stibberts and two other offi cials dressed in white breeches and scarlet military coats are seen. The Muhammadan wearing a white jama, is seen holding a copy of the report. Two other offi cials are represented in conventional manner. Another offi cial on the right side is engaged in a dialogue with an Indian person. The staff of Stibbert included William Kirkpatrick who was the Military Secretary and Persian Interpreter, William Scot, Peter Murray who was the Aide-De-Camp from 1780-1783 and Lieut. George Abercrombie Robinson; Aide-De-Camp in 1783-1784.

Portfolio Name: Company Paintings in Rashtrapati Bhawan
Source: Lalit Kala Akademi