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Synopsis Present collection of essays researched and analyzed by S.P. Verma, since 1973, provides the readers an introduction to the Mughal painting. The sixteen studies in this volume offer afresh interpretation of the Mughal miniatures. These relate to the aesthetic values, art-forms, signs and symbols, and the social and cultural history. Most importantly, Akbar's attempt to liberate painting from the straitjacket of sectarian ideology is the theme of Chapter 1.2. The 'artists signatures' (Chapter 1.4) and 'self-portraits' (Chapter 3.4) are the new features introduced with the rise of Mughal school. The volume draws on diverse textual sources to delve into the social history of dominant themes, motifs and styles. Verma presents a vivid account of the sixteenth century narrative art (Chapter 2.1), and major illustrated manuscripts (Chapters 2.2-3.4 and 7). Chapter 1.1 provides insights into the life and times of patrons and artists. Verma also touches parallel art traditions. His approach to the subject features the Mughal painting as an historical source.

Present thematic volume will interest serious scholars and students of Mughal history and cultural studies, and also art historians, connoisseurs of art and those interested in the development of painting in South Asia.