Who painted A marbled picture of Rustam catching Rakhsh?

A marbled picture of Rustam catching Rakhsh was painted by Shafi in 1650.

Where can I see A marbled picture of Rustam catching Rakhsh?

A marbled picture of Rustam catching Rakhsh is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is A marbled picture of Rustam catching Rakhsh?

A marbled picture of Rustam catching Rakhsh is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

A marbled picture of Rustam catching Rakhsh

Shafi , 1650

A marbled picture of Rustam catching Rakhsh is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Shafi. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. A marbled painting depicts a scene from a Persian epic, showing the young hero Rustam catching his future steed, Rakhsh.

Accession no.: 2013.286
Credit line: Gift in honor of Madeline Neves Clapp; Gift of Mrs. Henry White Cannon by exchange; Bequest of Louise T. Cooper; Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund; From the Catherine and Ralph Benkaim Collection

About this work

Overview

A marbled painting depicts a scene from a Persian epic, showing the young hero Rustam catching his future steed, Rakhsh. The artwork is characterized by its extensive use of marbled colors.

Subject & Meaning

The scene is drawn from Persian literature, where Rustam and Rakhsh are central figures. A shepherd figure is shown predicting Rustam's future role as a savior, while a leopard and deer in the background may symbolize the struggles to come.

Technique & Style

The painting showcases exceptional marbling technique, with swirled colors applied to every detail, from leaves to fabric folds. The artist achieved a high level of registration and control, using marbled colorant more extensively than in any other known example.

Context

Although the scene is from a Persian epic, the artwork was created in southern India, reflecting a blend of cultural influences. The artist's use of marbling technique in this context suggests a unique fusion of artistic traditions.