Artwork
Mirza Sulayman
Mirza Sulayman is a paint painting by the Mughal Painting artist Bhagwan. It dates from 1592 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This painting is an illustration from the Akbarnama, a chronicle of the reign of Mughal emperor Akbar.
About this work
A man in a white robe rides a white horse through rocky hills. Dust kicks up behind him. A few men on foot follow, carrying spears.
This painting comes from a book about Akbar, the Mughal ruler. It shows a real escape in 1590 when Mirza Sulayman fled from his own family’s soldiers.
If this style looks familiar, check out Bhagwan’s other work.
Overview
This painting is an illustration from the Akbarnama, a chronicle of the reign of Mughal emperor Akbar. It depicts Mirza Sulayman's flight from Mughal forces in Kabul.
Subject & Meaning
Mirza Sulayman, a member of a Timurid branch, flees on horseback through rocky terrain, pursued by spear-wielding men. The title 'Mirza' signifies descent from Timur, making Hindustan a legitimate conquest target for various family branches.
Technique & Style
The painting is a collaboration between Mughal court artists Bhagwan and Madhav, with Bhagwan handling the main composition and Madhav painting the faces.
History & Provenance
The Akbarnama was commissioned by Akbar and written by Abu'l Fazl between 1590 and 1596. The V&A's copy was likely illustrated between 1590 and 1595 and was purchased in 1896 from the widow of Major General John Clarke, who acquired it in India between 1858 and 1862.
Artist & collection
Artist
Bhagwan painted small, vivid portraits of Mughal courtiers for Emperor Akbar’s court in the late 1500s.
