Tilly Kettle: The First Englishman Painting India Tilly Kettle (1735–1786) stands as a singular figure in British art history—the first prominent English portrait painter to establish himself successfully within the vibrant cultural landscape of India during the zenith of the East India Company’s dominion. Born in London, the son of a coach painter from a family steeped in brewing tradition for five generations, Kettle's artistic journey began with foundational training under William Shipley at the Strand, marking him as part of a burgeoning artistic milieu eager to explore new horizons. Hi…