Hunting with falcons in a rocky terrain - Abd al-Samad

A detailed Persian miniature by Abd al-Samad, depicting a falconry hunt set against a stylised rocky terrain.

This Persian miniature, attributed to the master painter Abd al-Samad, depicts a hunting scene set against a rugged, rocky outcrop. The composition follows the conventions of the Safavid school, which Abd al-Samad helped transition into the early Mughal style. The scene captures several figures on horseback and on foot, engaged in the pursuit of game with falcons. The horses are rendered with attention to their markings and movement, while the figures display the refined posture and attire characteristic of the period.

The background consists of stylised, layered rock formations that occupy the upper two-thirds of the frame. This treatment of the terrain provides a sense of verticality and enclosure, typical of manuscript illustrations from the mid-sixteenth century. The palette relies on earthy ochres and browns for the stone, contrasted by the bright garments of the hunters, including shades of red, blue, and green. Gold accents are applied to the saddles and decorative elements, reflecting the high status of the activity depicted.

Abd al-Samad was a key figure in the development of the Mughal painting tradition, having moved from the Safavid court in Tabriz to the court of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. His work is noted for its precision and the integration of Persian aesthetic sensibilities with the demands of the Mughal imperial workshop. This piece demonstrates the technical control required for such small-scale work, where every figure and animal is defined by clear, controlled outlines. The work is part of a larger folio, with the verso containing calligraphy by Sultan Muhammad Nur and Mirza Muhammad, illustrating the multi-disciplinary nature of manuscript production in this era. The print captures the fine detail of the original pigments and the texture of the paper, offering a clear view of the artist's brushwork.