Who painted Duryodhana and Salya?

Duryodhana and Salya was painted by Kamal in 1598.

Where can I see Duryodhana and Salya?

Duryodhana and Salya is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Duryodhana and Salya?

Duryodhana and Salya is associated with Mughal Painting.

Artwork

Duryodhana and Salya

Kamal , 1598

Duryodhana and Salya is a paint painting by the Mughal Painting artist Kamal. It dates from 1598 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This detached painting originates from an illustrated Razmnama, a Persian translation of the Mahabharata, commissioned by Emperor Akbar for his Muslim courtiers. It is attributed to the artist Kamal, son of Khem.

Subject & Meaning

The scene portrays Duryodhana visiting Salya, accompanied by his brothers, to request Salya's service as Kama's charioteer in the impending war, a pivotal moment from the Mahabharata.

Technique & Style

Characterized by dramatic composition, the painting features a central figure in red with a notably twisted, awkward posture, contrasting with a calm facial expression, set against a backdrop of warriors in a dusty landscape.

History & Provenance

Part of a Razmnama manuscript illustrated by Akbar's artists, with a related piece dated to 1598; the artist's name, 'Kamal, son of Khem', is inscribed in the lower border.

Context

Created during Akbar's reign, this work reflects the emperor's effort to bridge cultural and religious divides by translating Hindu epics into Persian for his court.

Artist & collection

Artist

Kamal

Kamal painted in the late 16th century, when artists in Mughal ateliers still had to balance the emperor’s taste for heroic drama with their own love of quiet detail.