Aurangzeb Hunts Nilgais
| Support Type: | Paper |
| Paint Type: | Watercolor |
| Current Location: | The painting is currently at the Chester Beatty Library in Ireland,Dublin. |
| Location History: | The painting was created in the Mughal Court in circa 1660 but was brought to the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin,Ireland in the year 1930. |
"Aurangzeb Hunts Nilgais" is wonderful painting by Hashim who worked in the Mughal court in the early 17th century between 1598 and 1660. This painting depicts the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb hunting down Nilgais in a dense forest. The emperor is portrayed aiming a flintlock gun while his attendees are assisting and supporting him in the hunt. Many hunters are wearing green to blend in with the green landscape so the nilgais don't get alarmed and can be easily hunt down. Hashim's work in this painting is a notable work of excellency and represents his careful observation of natural surroundings and animals,his precise depiction of the courtier and attendant's robes and costumes and their postures as well. While portraying Aurangzeb as a disciplined ruler he has also shown him enjoying a nice pastime.