Artwork

The vagabond crosses a stream with the possessions of the daughter-in-law of the king of Banaras and absconds, from a Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot): Sixteenth Night

The vagabond crosses a stream with the possessions of the daughter-in-law of the king of Banaras and absconds, from a Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot): Sixteenth Night is an unspecified painting by the Mughal Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1560 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The artist packed every inch with tiny patterns—water ripples, embroidered sleeves, even the pebbles underfoot—so the emperor could linger over each detail.

You see a man wading through a shallow stream, arms piled with shiny jewelry and fine cloth. On the far bank, a woman stands alone, one finger pressed to her lips in surprise.

This tiny painting once lived inside a book of parrot tales read aloud at the Mughal court. The story warns: love can turn to theft in a heartbeat. The artist packed every inch with tiny patterns—water ripples, embroidered sleeves, even the pebbles underfoot—so the emperor could linger over each detail.

To see more paintings like this, look up Mughal India, court of Akbar (reigned 1556–1605).

Overview

This small painting illustrates a poignant moment from the Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot), depicting a vagabond crossing a stream with stolen valuables, leaving behind the daughter-in-law of the king of Banaras in shock.

Subject & Meaning

The scene conveys the bitter end of an ill-fated romance, where a destitute lover absconds with his partner's possessions, highlighting the transience and potential deceit in relationships, as cautioned by the tale.

Technique & Style

Characterized by meticulous detail, the artwork features intricate patterns, including water ripples, embroidered clothing, and pebbles, showcasing the refined craftsmanship typical of Mughal miniature painting, designed to encourage close examination.

History & Provenance

Originally part of a Tuti-nama manuscript intended for recitation at the Mughal court during Akbar's reign (1556–1605), this painting reflects the cultural and artistic patronage of the time.

Context

Created for the Mughal court, the piece is emblematic of the period's literary and artistic fusion, where illustrated stories like the Tuti-nama served both as entertainment and moral guidance for the royal audience.