Ashmolean Museum at the University of Oxford, located in Oxford, United Kingdom.
The painting captures a courtyard filled with people and animals. Some individuals are talking others are. Some are sitting. The variety in their poses gives the scene an active feel. The bright clothing, animals and buildings make the artwork visually rich and engaging. At the bottom of the painting two goats add a touch of realism. Connect the scene to everyday life. The artist has included meaningful details in the clothing, facial features and objects held by the figures. The surrounding buildings are richly decorated with pillars, balconies, windows and a covered section. In the right corner a large blue carpet with intricate floral designs stands out. The colors red orange, blue, white and green work together creating a strong visual contrast. Trees and greenery can be seen behind the buildings adding depth and a sense of nature. An important element is the inscription at the bottom of the painting, which links the image to the literary traditions of the time. The artwork measures 40.2 x 27.6 cm in height and width. The page size is 30.5 x 17 cm. The painting with the border is 22 x 13.4 cm. Without the border it is 21.5 x 12.6 cm. The artist is Fattu, who was active, around 1598. The work is dated 1598. Is made using gouache and gold on paper. It is currently held at the Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford in the UK. The accession number is EA1978.2590. It is part of the museum’s research collection.
Fattu’s 1598 painting presents a lively courtyard scene that reflects everyday social life through the interaction of people, animals, and richly decorated architecture. The varied poses, colourful clothing, and detailed surroundings create a sense of movement and realism. The goats, greenery, and household objects further connect the scene to ordinary life. The inscription at the bottom adds a literary dimension, linking the visual scene with the cultural traditions of its time. Overall, the painting combines social activity, natural detail, rich decoration, and literary culture to create a vivid picture of life in the period.
