Baz Bahadur and Rupmati Hunting, Pahari, Punjab Hills, 19th century

gouache heightened with gold on paper, dark blue inner band with floral scrolls, pale pink outer border with dark pink and yellow rules

Painted area in generally good condition, slight staining and slight crease, minor losses. Borders with some rubbing and scuffs, slight thin scratches. Some stains and marks on back. As viewed.
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This scene depicts Baz Bahadur, the muslim ruler of Mandu and his Hindu wife Rupmati. Sultan Bahadur met his songstress wife whilst out hunting. Unfortunately the romance was to end in tragedy when Mandu was overthrown by Akbar in 1561 and Rani Rupmati rather than surrender to the Mughals chose to poison herself. The story of Baz Bahadur and his Hindu mistress became a popular theme within the later provincial Mughal courts. The lovers were often depicted riding together at night.