Lot 78
A MUGHAL BATTLE SCENE
INDIA, RAJASTHAN, 18TH CENTURY
Auction: 10 June 2026 from 14:00 BST
Description
gouache on paper heightened with gold, laid down on card, dark brown border with gold floral decoration within blue, red and black margin rulings, depicting Mughal warriors with swords drawn and shields raised, riding horses protected by elephant shaped armour, the faces of fallen warriors look out from between the horses legs which trample on them
Dimensions
26.6cm x 34.5cm
Footnote
This fierce battle scene reflects a strong Mughal influence, yet certain facial features attribute the painting to Rajasthan. During the 18th century, Mughal influence greatly shaped the development of Rajasthani painting and artistic traditions. As the Mughal Empire declined, many artists from the imperial courts migrated to the royal courts of Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Udaipur, Bundi, and Kishangarh. These artists brought with them refined techniques of Mughal miniature painting, such as delicate brushwork, realistic portraiture, detailed landscapes, and the use of rich colours. Rajasthani artists blended these Mughal elements with their own traditional styles, which were more vibrant, decorative, and focused on themes from Hindu mythology, folk tales, and royal life. The result was a unique fusion of Mughal elegance and Rajput creativity, visible in court scenes, portraits, hunting scenes, and depictions of Krishna and Radha. This cultural exchange enriched Rajasthani art and helped create some of the most celebrated schools of Indian miniature painting.