Illustration of a Philosophical Poem

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Illustration of a Philosophical Poem

India, Telangana, Hyderabad, circa 1800-1825
Drawings; watercolors
Opaque watercolor, gold, and ink on paper
Sheet: 20 1/8 x 11 5/8 in. (51.12 x 29.53 cm); Image: 15 x 8 in. (38.1 x 20.32 cm); Image: 15 x 8 in.; 38.1 x 20.32 cm
Purchased with funds provided by anonymous donors (AC1994.142.1)
Not currently on public view

Curator Notes

The visual subject of this intriguing painting seems to have been intended to personify the musical and anti-bacchanalian imagery of the poem inscribed in fine Nasta'liq script....
The visual subject of this intriguing painting seems to have been intended to personify the musical and anti-bacchanalian imagery of the poem inscribed in fine Nasta'liq script. This interpretation is suggested by several elements of concordance, particularly the allegorical musician wearing a skirt with gold threads and the man tempting a mother and child with a cup of wine. The representation of the figures as Europeans may have been meant as a subtle comment on Western virtues and sensual pursuits. While at first glance the painting is a standard terrace scene, by reading the poetry one transcends the superficial setting to understand the work's inherent meaning: When that cypress-statured [beloved one] rose to his feet with the intention of dancing, A thousand mischiefs rose from their seat out of respect for her. O musician! The atmosphere has become cloudy. Bring forth a new [musical] note. Impart to this water a fresh color with [burning] flame. When, O luxury-loving one, my sweetheart by his graceful gait raises mischief on [his] foot [i.e., wrecks havoc on the hearts of lovers], His gold-threaded skirt becomes the skirt of [heavenly] Resurrection. O luxury-loving one! I have no head for song, banquet, or [wine]cup. I am [already] intoxicated [with the wine of love] [and] I am going to see the sick [languishing] Narcissus. (Translation by Z. A. Desai.)
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Bibliography

  • Markel, Stephen. "The Enigmatic Image: Curious Subjects in Indian Art." Asianart.com, July 28, 2015. http://asianart.com/articles/enigmatic.