Historical accounts mention that Emperor Akbar's imperial atelier housed a group of painters sharing the moniker ‘Kashmiri,’ which included Kamal, Muhammad, Isma’il, and Ya’qub. The most notable name among the Haidar Kashmiri, who worked on major manuscripts. He also collaborated with the portraitist, Nanha, on the Timurnama and worked both as designer and as a painter.
This particular folio from Shah-nama depicts an intense, dramatic moment from the story of Isfandiyar as he was trying to get revenge on King Arjasp of Turan for defeating his dad and capturing his sisters. He sneaks into the fort by disguising himself as a merchant and ends up defeating the king right there.They are shown in three-fourth views wearing these round, dome-like khulakhud helmets.The scene is gruesome and gore but set in environment with delicate and intricate details of a peaceful garden. This contrast makes the composition more fascinating. There’s also a bystander witnessing this with absolute astonishment.
Haidar’s work is also distinguished by his use of bright, bold pinks, purples, and greens. Since he was a regional artist, he brought in his own local Kashmiri style to the artworks that were primarily being produced in the context of Mughals.
The reason this artwork is outstanding to me, is the way the artist manages to find a balance between the gruesome moment the figures are living and the visually interesting narrative they create, along with the bright and beautiful colors surrounding it. It may be interpreted as a metaphor of the next events that will occur, as it is portrayed is an enchanting way. In addition to the text in the background , the composition of the painting is pretty well done and easy to follow.
