Maharana Jagat Singh II of Mewar Dressed as a Bhil, Hunting Deer at Night - Chokha

A nocturnal hunting scene by the Mewar artist Chokha, depicting Maharana Jagat Singh II disguised as a Bhil, illuminated by a golden torch.

This miniature painting by the artist Chokha depicts a nocturnal hunting scene involving Maharana Jagat Singh II of Mewar. Although the Maharana reigned from 1734 to 1751, Chokha was active in the early nineteenth century, suggesting this work is a retrospective or symbolic representation rather than a contemporary portrait. The Maharana is shown disguised as a Bhil, a tribal group native to the region, which was a common motif in Rajput courtly art to demonstrate the ruler's connection to the land and his prowess in the wilderness. The composition is set against a dark, atmospheric background that emphasises the artificial light source. One figure holds a torch or lamp, casting a brilliant, golden beam that illuminates a group of deer on the hillside. The Maharana stands ready with a bow, his posture alert and precise. In the lower left, a third figure tends to a small fire, providing a sense of scale and narrative depth. The use of gold leaf for the light rays and the sinuous, cloud-like form in the upper sky adds a decorative quality to the scene. Chokha, a member of a family of court painters in Mewar, is known for his ability to blend traditional courtly themes with a distinct, personal style. His work often features clear outlines and a controlled use of colour, which allows the narrative elements to remain legible despite the dark setting. The painting is framed by a simple blue border, typical of the period's manuscript illustrations. This piece offers a glimpse into the courtly life of Mewar, where hunting was not merely a sport but a ritualised activity that reinforced the status and identity of the ruler.