The Vaishnava Meets the Sufi, as Akbar Looks On

Most miniature paintings display jewel-like colors with majestic themes. The ostentatious life styles of the royals were a favorite subject with artists. But, there are a few paintings, sober of theme and subdued in colour.

Akbar had a religious bent or mind but was secular in his approach. Hindu saints and Muslim fakirs alike were at the receiving end of his attention and grants. A fakir, who had come to the outskirts of the city, sits under a tree. A shawl covers his form and a cap covers his head – the artist reveals just his face that itself reveals a lot. He is oblivious to the presence of a dignitary, there is tranquility on his face. A Hindu saint sits next to him, playing a musical instrument. A Vaishnava by faith (recognized by the mark on his forehead), he looks on reverently at the fakir.

Akbar, who is seen in profile, kneels in front of the great man, his hands held together with an expressionless face, but probably he meant for his posture to say it all.

The artist has used numerous ochre shades, keeping in mind the sobriety of the theme.

This description by Kiranjyot.

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