Half-length figure of an old man, with his hands clenched in front of him, standing in a dark interior. He is wearing a white turban and fur-trimmed cloak, held at the chest by a large gold and jewelled clasp.
The identification of the sitter has long been discussed, and has traditionally been described as a 'rabbi' or 'oriental'. The blotchy appearance of the man's skin has since led to his identification as King Uzziah of Judah, who is recorded in the Bible as being struck by leprosy for violating the Temple (2 Chronicles 26: 16–20).
The painting was purchased by the 3rd Duke of Devonshire in 1742 for the sum of £78 15 shillings.
