Artwork
Tarkhan Divana and Husain Quli Khan
Tarkhan Divana and Husain Quli Khan is a paint painting by the Mughal Painting artist La'l. It dates from 1592 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This painting shows two men in a tent. Tarkhan Divana, on the left, bows low to Husain Quli Khan, who sits on the right. The tent behind them has rich red and gold details.
The work is signed by La'l but painted by others. The faces were done by Mukund. It records a treaty from 1562, not just two figures.
Look up La'l next.
Overview
This 16th-century Indian painting illustrates a pivotal moment in Mughal history: the 1562 treaty between Tarkhan Divana, custodian of Ajmer Fort, and Husain Quli Khan, a Mughal general. The scene unfolds within a lavishly detailed temporary tent.
Subject & Meaning
The composition conveys submission and alliance, with Tarkhan Divana bowing deeply to the seated Husain Quli Khan, symbolizing the surrender of Ajmer Fort to Mughal rule. The specific event depicted is a key aspect of Akbar's consolidation of power.
Technique & Style
Attributed to a collaborative effort among royal artists, the painting features intricate details, notably in the tent's red and gold adornments. While conceived by La'l, the piece was executed by Naman, with facial features painted by Mukund, showcasing the division of labor among Mughal court artists.
History & Provenance
Commissioned by Emperor Akbar for the Akbarnama, this painting is part of the earliest illustrated version of his chronicle (c. 1592–1595). It remained in the imperial family until purchased by the V&A in 1896 from Frances Clarke, widow of Major General John Clarke.
Context
Created during Akbar's reign, the painting reflects the era's historical documentation through art. The Akbarnama, written by Abu’l Fazl, was a royal project involving top artists, with many contributors listed in the A’in-i Akbari.
Legacy
As part of the Akbarnama's illustrations, this work represents the pinnacle of Mughal manuscript painting, influencing subsequent artistic traditions. Its detailed attribution also provides insight into the collaborative practices of the Mughal court's artistic community.
Artist & collection
Artist
Lal (La'l) sometimes called Lal wa Sarjangal is a town and the administrative center of Lal wa Sarjangal District, Ghor province in central Afghanistan.
