f.38
recto:

Western tragopan, 18th century.

Painting of a Western Tragopan, the medium-sized black, red and white-spotted pheasant found in the Himalayas. It stands on a hillside facing right with flowering plants on each side and a sunset sky.


verso:

Layla and Majnun, 18th century.

An episode from the Arab tale of Layla and Majnun, a story often retold and referred to by Classical Persian poets. Having fallen in love with Layla, a girl from a neighbouring tribe who he is prevented from marrying, Majnun wanders into the desert wilderness, giving up food and water.

In this scene Layla (depicted as a crowned queen in an unusual ¾ profile), now married, visits the skeletal Majnun. She stands offering a cup of wine as he huddles sorrowfully at her feet.

The upper part of the painting has been extended by 3cm.

For further information on this album see RCIN 1005069.