In August 1750, King Frederick II of Prussia held a month of festivities to celebrate the visit of his sister Wilhelmine. These culminated in the Carousel, knightly equestrian performances, where four teams competed in displays of horsemanship. The Carousel was one of last great European Royal performances designed to demonstrate the power, wealth, and importance of the King and his cavalry to his subjects and other kingdoms.

Thousands of people watched the spectacle. The teams based on ancient empires (the Greeks, Romans, Persians, and Carthaginians) were each led by a Prince or military figurehead. Patrick Home was a member of the Carthaginian’s team. Surviving images in the National Museum of Sweden show the presence of Black people as part of this team. This portrait of the King was brought to Scotland by Patrick. Rosalba Carriera was an outstanding pastellist from France.