Imperial Ceremony

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This elegant and masterful composition characterized by superb control and skillful construction is akin to the traditions of Bukhara, Safavid and Timurid paintings. Humayun's reign saw numerous paintings depicting court scenes reflecting the pomp of imperial ceremonies. The scene here is set in an open courtyard outside the royal palace, with decorative tents overhead and rich Persian carpets underneath. The artist has used all his compositional skill and painterly talent to render each particular figure with individuality along with countless nuances in dress and turbans. But the face of the prince, like those of the courtiers and dignitaries who look on, is totally void of expression. All the sitting figures are in kneeling position reflecting court etiquettes. There is an absence of volume or modeling with the thin flowing bodies gracefully posed along with a wealth of decorative detail. Behind the structure are hulking mountains, more like a pile of irregular, Baroque rocks. Empty space around the main scene of action is occupied by a stiff, floral design.

This drawing is noteworthy for its exemplary draftsmanship and bears the stamp of Persian influence in its extreme fluidity and the complete absence of 'European' technique. The sense of balance within the composition and the refinement of even the smallest detail are the hallmark of an artist of consummate skill yet conservative taste.

This description by Renu Rana.