Purkhu also spelt as Purkhoo or Parkhu, and also known as Purkhu of Kangra, was a Phari painter who specialized in Kangra style. A Pahari miniature art tradition that evolved in the foothills during the mid 18th century, the Kangra school of paintings usually evolved around the themes of divine love, bhakti and nature and is usually celebrated for its fine delicate lines and vibrant, lush landscapes. Purkhu was the son of Dhummun, who came to become the head Chitrera (artist) of a painting workshop in the court of Sansar Chand at Kangra. The earlier styles of Kangra paintings were more set in dreamy and whimsical tone where Purkhu brought about a more journalistic approach to the apintings. In his works, every subject maintained an individualistic apperance with distinct features and facial features. The landscapes were also depicted as more refined and composite. The ggiven painting above showcases Maharaja Sansar Chand of Kangra enjoying paintings with his courtiers . Painted within 1785-1790, this painting is highly appreciated for its self referntial nature as Purkhu has tried to demonstrate a slice of life from the painting workshop of Maharaja Sansar Chand of which Purkhu was an inevitable part of. The Maharaja holds a hookah pipe while using his other hand to to hold and view paintings with his assembled ministers and noblemen. At the lower left side of the painitng, there is a figure who is holding a cover used to shield and protect miniature paintings, which is assumed to be that of a self portrait of Purkhu himself. Purkhu's distinctive style is eveident in the painting by the way he maps out the event by clearly separating the subjects from the background. Purkhu painted his figures as round faced, short figures with sharp outlines in a subtle , pastle colour palette. His compositions rather them just paintings served as pieces of journalism which now continue to serve as the windows through we can look to the past.
This painting is a fascinating record of artistic life in the Kangra court. Rather than depicting mythology or romance, Purkhu presents a moment where Maharaja Sansar Chand and his courtiers admire paintings, celebrating the importance of art itself. The balanced composition, delicate colours and carefully arranged figures reflect the elegance of the Kangra style while giving each individual a distinct identity.
I understand this artwork as both a historical document and a tribute to the creative world of the royal atelier. The possible inclusion of Purkhu's self portrait adds a personal dimension, allowing the artist to quietly place himself within the history he recorded. Overall, the painting demonstrates Purkhu's remarkable ability to combine refined miniature technique with careful observation, preserving an authentic glimpse of courtly culture and artistic tradition.
