Item Info

Media Type: Manuscripts
Source: Rare Book Department
Notes:

This illustration introduces Bhishma, the prince who rather reluctantly fought on the side of the Kauravas in the great war that is the centerpiece of the Mahabharata. Bhishma’s archery teacher, Parashurama, prepares the young warrior to fight a rival for the hand of the princess Amba. Although Bhishma is ultimately victorious, he ends up paying a dreadful price. Amba, whose devotions really lay with the rival, places a deadly curse on Bhishma. This painting offers another opportunity to observe a composition’s various underdrawings and erasures. Also visible are patches of faint, horizontal lines—a method for suggesting texture and shadow that may have been inspired by European engravings.

Region/County: Region/County:Northern India, Mughal court

Creation Year (Single Year or Range Begin): 1599
Call Number: Lewis M 30
Creator Name: Asa - Artist