Sahadeva Brings Raja Yudhisthira News of Victory
Artist: Paras (Mughal, active 1500s)
Date: 1598-1599
Dimensions:
H: 7 7/8 in. (20 cm); W: 4 3/16 in. (10.6 cm)
Medium: Watercolor on paper
Place of Origin: India, Paras (Parasa)
Classification: Manuscripts
Credit Line: Museum Purchase
Object number: 1926.17
Label Text:Yudhisthira, king of the Pandavas, sits regally on his throne in a golden yellow robe, surrounded by attendants. His kinsman Shadeva brings news of a great victory, as the returning soldiers enter the court with their well-groomed horses and elephant. The scene comes from the Razmnama, or Book of War, the Persian translation of the Mahabharata, a Sanskrit epic from circa 400 BCE that describes events surrounding a sovereignty dispute and ensuing war in India. This leaf is likely from a version commissioned by a prince from the court of Emperor Akbar (ruled 1556–1605) of the Islamic Mughal dynasty, at a time of great conflict and Mughal expansion. With its tale of heroic battles, scenes from the Razmnama likely would have drawn great interest from both the ruling Muslims and their Hindu subjects.
During Akbar’s reign, Persian and Indian court artists worked together, combining traditions to develop a distinctive style. Among these artists was Paras, recognized for his use of careful modeling and variegated textures that provide his subjects with a sense of movement. Blending the refinement found in earlier Persian miniature painting with strong rhythmic lines and vivid blocks of color, Paras re-creates the lively atmosphere of Mughal court society and its local customs.
During Akbar’s reign, Persian and Indian court artists worked together, combining traditions to develop a distinctive style. Among these artists was Paras, recognized for his use of careful modeling and variegated textures that provide his subjects with a sense of movement. Blending the refinement found in earlier Persian miniature painting with strong rhythmic lines and vivid blocks of color, Paras re-creates the lively atmosphere of Mughal court society and its local customs.
Not on view
In Collection(s)