Picture Details
Scene from the Razmnama, or Book of Wars
Partner:
British LibraryImage reference:
BL.Add.5639.xcixOrigin:
Moradabad, IndiaArtist / Date:
Unknown, 1761-1763Size:
400 x 250 mmDescription:
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This painting is from the Razmnama or Book of Wars which is the Persian translation of the Sanskrit epic Mahabharata. Naqib Khan was commissioned by Akbar (ruled 1556-1605) to produce the translation for circulation to the Amirs in furtherance of Akbar's desire to promote understanding between Muslims and Hindus. It was often copied in the following centuries. This copy in three volumes has 134 illustrations painted on card with floral borders. Here Dronacharya is shown dying pierced with many arrows under an immense ficus tree, watched over by Krishna and the five Pandava brothers. Except for Krishna, the figures are dressed in Islamic armour and robes. Archery was a prime skill in ancient India and known as the art of princes. Arrows were frequently made of reed. Arrows were also an essential part of Mughal warfare and were composite, made of wood, hide and metal. The banyan symbolises immortality and regeneration and placing the dying guru of the Pandavas under a banyan tree signifies his enduring legacy.
