Akbar assists in capturing a cheetah
1592
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1592
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting shows Akbar watching workers dig pits to trap cheetahs. He stands in a red robe, hands clasped behind his back. Others bend over the pits, ropes ready. The cheetahs were later tamed for royal hunts. This scene was rare—most artists never saw it. The artist kept the moment alive in bright colors. See how Akbar’s calm face contrasts with the workers’ effort. Want to find more? Look up Tulsi, the painter of this scene.