Artwork

A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto)

A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto), by Unknown, unspecified, 1760
A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto), by Unknown, unspecified, 1760

A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto) is an unspecified painting by the Mughal Painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1760 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This 18th-century Indian painting depicts a royal woman on a palace terrace at night, surrounded by attendants and musicians.

Accession no.
2013.341.a
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

This 18th-century Indian painting depicts a royal woman on a palace terrace at night, surrounded by attendants and musicians.

Subject & Meaning

The woman's pose, stretching to display her figure, adheres to traditional Indian poetic imagery, emphasizing beauty and elegance. The scene conveys a sense of luxury and leisure, characteristic of royal life in private spaces.

Technique & Style

The painting features intricate details, such as patterned tiles and flowing fabric, showcasing the artist's attention to craftsmanship. The use of lantern light creates a warm glow, illuminating the scene.

Context

The artwork reflects the artistic themes popularized during the reign of Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah, which continued to influence regional centers in northern India throughout the late 1700s.

A princess with attendants on a terrace
A princess with attendants on a terrace, Unknown

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto)?

A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto) was painted by Unknown in 1760.

Where can I see A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto)?

A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto)?

A Princess on a Terrace with Attendants at Night (recto) is associated with Mughal Painting.