This portrait, Ayuba Diallo, a man from what is now Sengal, who was captured and sold into slavery. and brought to Europe and America. He lived from 1701-1773.

His clothing is an expression of his Islamic faith, and his status as a well-educated and cultured individual. The red item around his neck is the Holy Qur’an.

His robes are reminiscent of classical The color of the robes he wears in this portrait are colors worn by people of the highest status in European nations. The color white depicted a person to be of great wealth or importance, as for their contribution to the Eurocentric culture.

Looking at the face of Diallo in this portrait, we see that he is smirking. However, when we read his narrative, we learn that Diallo was very reluctant to have his portrait painted. His reluctance stemmed from his faith as a Muslim man. Even with his reluctance, the Europeans threaten to continue to his servitude, hence the image was captured.

Diallo was enslaved on Kent Island and was later held prisoner in the courthouse of Kent County, Delaware. It is possible, perhaps even probable, that Diallo passed through Kent County, MD during his captivity.

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