A marbled picture of Rustam catching Rakhsh - Shafi

A seventeenth-century Mughal miniature depicting the hero Rustam capturing his horse, Rakhsh, using intricate marbled paper techniques.

This work by the Indian artist Shafi, active around 1650, depicts a scene from the Shahnameh, the Persian epic poem. The composition illustrates the legendary hero Rustam as he captures his future steed, Rakhsh. The artist employs the technique of abri, or marbling, to fill the bodies of the horses and other animals with swirling, colourful patterns. This decorative approach creates a distinct visual texture that contrasts with the more traditional, flat application of pigment on the human figures and the surrounding flora.

The scene is organised in a non-linear fashion, common in the miniature tradition of the period. Rustam appears twice: once standing to the left, observing the herd, and again to the right, actively lassoing the horse. The animals are arranged across the page in a rhythmic, stacked manner, filling the space with movement. The inclusion of floral motifs and small birds provides a sense of balance to the action. The palette consists of muted earth tones, soft blues, and reds, which are typical of the mid-seventeenth-century Mughal style.

Shafi demonstrates a high level of control over the marbling process, ensuring the patterns align with the anatomical forms of the animals. The work reflects the interest in technical experimentation within the royal workshops of the time. By combining the narrative drama of the Shahnameh with the aesthetic appeal of marbled paper, the artist produces a piece that functions as both a storytelling device and a display of craftsmanship. The figures are rendered with fine, precise lines, while the background remains relatively sparse, allowing the patterned animals to occupy the viewer's attention. This print captures the unique intersection of literary tradition and decorative art found in the Mughal court.