Shishupala arguing with Rukmini’s father, Bhishmaka, from a Rukmini Haran

One painting from a series depicting stories from the life of the Hindu god Krishna, this scene shows a villain named Shishupala arguing with a king. The king, in purple, sits in front of an embroidered gold cushion. His daughter, Princess Rukmini, is engaged to marry Shishupala, whom she despises and calls a “thieving jackal.” Shishupala is angry, because he heard that Krishna is plotting to kidnap Rukmini and marry her himself. Courtiers look on with concern. <br><br>The artist shows awareness of Mughal costume, jewelry, and architectural forms, placing this mythological scene in a Mughal court setting.