As a young man Barraud, who grew up in south-east London, had wanted to become a doctor, but the training was too expensive for the family to afford; instead he became a chemist and druggist. In 1849 he emigrated to New Zealand where he rose to eminence in his field, becoming President of the Pharmacy Board in 1881. Barraud was a keen amateur artist, and travelled widely over the North and South Islands. This watercolour was presented to Queen Elizabeth during her visit to New Zealand in 1958.