f.28
recto:

Oriental darter, late 17th century.

Painting of an Anhinga or Oriental darter, a cormorant-like dark-feathered, web-footed, long-necked bird with a sharp, straight beak. It stands near the water’s edge of a meadow against a bright green background which, along with the sky, is a later addition.


verso:

Mughal ladies on a terrace, c.1660-1700.

A painting of two Mughal ladies in intimate conversation on a palace terrace at night. They are seated on a summer carpet supported by bolster cushions. The lady on the left leans forward holding out a small plate as the other strokes her shoulder. To the left, an attendant holds a flask of wine. Other bottles, cups and fruits have been placed on the carpet in front of them.

Intimate scenes of Mughal women in domestic and outdoor settings were common in the 17th and early 18th centuries.

For further information on this album see RCIN 1005069.