Painting

Two princes are seated beneath a canopy on a terrace overlooking a lotus-strewn river conversing and listening to music by the light of the moon. The composition is meticulously balanced - both of the central figures are leaning against large bolsters, and with two attendants to either side. Even the royal accessories in the foreground are equally balanced before each prince. The standing attendants behind each figure are both holding a sword, presumably belonging to these unidentified main figures. It is particularly noteworthy that each prince is positioned on the same level, the figures are the same size, and each is leaning against a bolster of the same proportions. This may reflect that the two are of similar political importance. In the strict hierarchy of representation in Mughal painting, political and social standing is often represented through darbar scenes, as well as less formal scenes of palace life. The subtle colour palette of whites and greys accentuates the night-time setting.