Islamic miniature

The court in Murshidabad, in Bengal, was one of several that flourished in the second half of the 18th century as the Mughal Empire was in decline. Although its rulers were Muslims, the scene seems to be taking place in a Hindu setting. The prince calmly presides in the men’s quarters together with members of his court and a couple of astrologers, who are going to cast the horoscope of the boy who is just being born under the supervision of an army of attendants. A woman is on her way over to bring the men the joyful news. People gathered outside the palace walls are also excited. Without following the laws of perspective, everything is depicted in the clear and organized fashion typical of Murshidabad painting.