Black Buck and the Doe
Description
Though not very uncommon, the blackbuck or the Indian antelope with dazzling colour and spiralled horns is often portrayed by the Mughal artists. It is the most beautiful of all the varieties of antelopes and is considered a sacred animal in northern India.
The blackbuck with a dark brownish-black coat is strutting behind the fawn-coloured doe, throwing his head upwards till his horns almost touch his back. The artist has not failed to paint his face glands, widely opened at this time of his rut period in February or March. The doe walking ahead is also enjoying the same mood. Both of them carry their neck-straps with a ring in front to chain them when required. Fine anklets provide delicate adornment to the female for the delight of the master or the onlooker.
There is an elaborately decorated Qita on the reverse by Nishat Muhammad.
The verse is a prayer for the welfare and good health of the king.
Collection
Indian Miniature Paintings
Object Type
Miniature Painting
Material
Paper
Schools/Culture/Period
Mughal
Technique
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Date
Late 17th century CE
Location
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Dimension
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