Paintings of the Razmnama: The Book of War by Ashok Kumar Da

Paintings of the Razmnama: The Book of War by Ashok Kumar Das
Published by Mapin Publishing, First Edition 1905, 198 Pages

Ashok Kumar Das’ Paintings of the Razmnama: The Book of War is an in-depth study of one of the most remarkable illustrated manuscripts of the Mughal era. The Razmnama, meaning “Book of War,” is a Persian translation of the Mahabharata created under the patronage of Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. This book provides a detailed examination of the manuscript’s exquisite miniature paintings, shedding light on their artistic, cultural, and historical significance.

The book explores how Akbar, fascinated by Indian epics, commissioned the translation of the Mahabharata into Persian to bridge cultural gaps between his diverse empire. This translation was accompanied by a lavishly illustrated manuscript featuring some of the finest examples of Mughal miniature painting. Das meticulously analyzes these paintings, revealing their intricate details, vibrant color palettes, and the fusion of Persian, Indian, and Central Asian artistic influences.

Each chapter of the book focuses on different aspects of the Razmnama, from the artistic techniques employed by Mughal court painters to the thematic representations of war, valor, and divine intervention. The book also discusses the historical context in which these paintings were created, highlighting Akbar’s efforts to foster religious and cultural integration in his empire.

What makes Paintings of the Razmnama particularly valuable is its combination of visual splendor and scholarly insight. The author provides high-quality reproductions of the manuscript’s paintings, accompanied by detailed explanations that decode the symbolism and narrative elements within each artwork. Through these pages, readers gain a deeper understanding of the artistic mastery behind the Razmnama and its role as a significant cultural artifact of the Mughal period.

This book is an essential resource for art historians, scholars of Mughal history, and anyone fascinated by Indian miniature paintings and historical manuscripts. It not only celebrates the artistic legacy of the Mughal court but also offers a window into a time when art, literature, and royal patronage were intricately intertwined.

• A detailed study of the Razmnama, the Persian translation of the Mahabharata.

• High-quality reproductions of Mughal miniature paintings with expert analysis.

• Insight into Emperor Akbar’s vision of cultural and religious integration.

• Exploration of artistic techniques and influences in Mughal court painting.

• A valuable reference for art historians, researchers, and enthusiasts of Indian art and history.