British Library, London, United Kingdom (Shelfmark: Or. 3714, Vol. 1 4, f. 351v)
Location History:
Commissioned in the imperial Mughal atelier in Northern India (c. 1590–1591) during the reign of Emperor Akbar as part of the illustrated Vāqiʻāt-i Bāburī (Baburnama) manuscript. It was later acquired by the British Museum in June 1889 (presented by G. G. Barnard) and subsequently transferred to the British Library’s Oriental and India Office Collections, where it remains preserved
Babur Hunting Rhinoceros in the Jungle near Bigram (1525) is an exquisite miniature painting belonging to the Mughal dynasty. This masterpiece was created by the court painter Shiv Das in about 1590 CE. The painting is made using opaque watercolor and golden paint on paper. The artwork is based on the events described in the imperial manuscript, Vāqiʻāt-i Bāburī (Baburnama) written in Persian for Emperor Akbar. Babur is seen on an expedition organizing a hunting party, which also included his small son Humayun. The painter has presented the disorganized organization of the imperial hunt through a combination of expressive diagonal lines and an elaborate technique of layering topographical details. The hunters riding on lavishly decorated elephants and horses encircle an Indian rhinoceros which is trampling through tall reeds and rough rocks. Shiv Das's distinct style of painting is indicated through his ability to create fine portraits with expressive facial features. Each member of the court, foot soldier, and mahout displays individual facial features, mannerisms, and emotions, illustrating Shiv Das's ability to avoid stereotypical portrayals. The environmental setting is depicted using vibrant mineral colors in a balanced manner where the Indian natural flora is captured in realistic terms while the Persian rocks feature stylized elements. In addition to depicting instances of artistic bravery and royal fun, the painting importantly serves a historical purpose. Shiv Das (also known as Shivdas) was an artist in the Mughal royal workshop during the late 16th and early 17th century when Emperor Akbar and Jahangir were in power. Specialization as an Artist: Shiv Das is renowned for his ability to portray the different faces of all people in diverse situations. His unique way of portraying the people instead of using a typical or beautiful face deserves a mention.
This folio is a classic product of Akbar's imperial workshop (kitabkhana), where division of labor was used to produce masterworks. Shiv Das provided the master outline (tarh), establishing the spatial geometry, kinetic energy, and dramatic foreshortening. Surjan executed the painting (amal), applying rich mineral pigments, delicate washes, and fine gold highlights. The result is a seamless synthesis where structural tension meets exquisite surface detail.
