A Royal Entertainment

This artwork dated to 1600 CE, during the reign of Emperor Akbar (1556–1605) is attributed to artist Surdas. He was known for use of strong colours and clearly defined forms in paintings. The subject in this artwork is identified as Prince Salim, the future Emperor Jahangir, by an inscription on the reverse. The painting provides a look into the life of the Mughal prince and his courtly surroundings. The painting shows a young Prince Salim seated at the centre surrounded by a group of attendants and courtiers within a tent. The several attendants are involved in his entertainment and service. One attendant bears a sword, a poet holds a book, one holds a fly whisk and musicians are also shown. An antelope is also depicted in the scene. The prince is depicted in the centre of the composition which distinguishes him from the surrounding figures and immediately establishes the hierarchy. The rich garments and jewellery of the prince, weapons and other accessories reflect the luxury associated with the Mughal court. The use of gold by Surdas also adds to the richness of the miniature painting, and the bright hues of blues, reds and oranges and the sharply outlined forms make the individual figures visually distinct. The emphasis on clothing and accessories also reflects the importance of material culture in Mughal representations of court life. This artwork can be interpreted as a representation of the authority of the royals within the Mughal court. Although the painting does not show prince Salim performing a political or military act, his position at the centre of the composition establishes him as the focus around which the attendants and the courtiers are depicted. The sword-bearing attendant reflects military and political power, while the poet and musicians represent the cultural and intellectual aspects of the Court. Thus, the painting brings together several qualities expected of a Mughal ruler.