Maharana Jagat Singh II of Mewar (r. 1734–51) Dressed as a Bhil, Hunting Deer at Night

The painting employs a pronounced chiaroscuro effect, contrasting the bright, almost ethereal illumination of the deer and the glowing disc with the deep shadows of the forest. This stark light‑dark interplay creates a sense of immediacy and drama, while the detailed rendering of foliage and the sinuous snake adds texture and depth to the scene.

Created during the reign of Maharana Jagat Singh II (1734–1751), the piece reflects courtly patronage in Mewar. Its provenance traces back to the royal collection, where it was likely displayed as a visual record of the ruler’s exploits and as a symbol of his connection to the land and its peoples.

In early‑18th‑century Rajasthan, royal hunts were both a sport and a political statement, demonstrating control over nature and subjects. The depiction of a Bhil‑clad Maharana underscores the cultural exchange between the Rajput elite and indigenous tribal groups, a dynamic often highlighted in courtly art of the period.

The painting remains a valuable example of regional court art that blends portraiture, narrative, and dramatic lighting. It offers insight into how Mewar’s rulers used visual media to construct identity and legitimize power through association with local traditions and the natural world.