Feb 25, 2022
Jun 6, 2011

Mahrusa kills herself at the tomb of the king of Zabul, and her husband does likewise, from a Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot): Thirty-sixth Night

Mahrusa kills herself at the tomb of the king of Zabul, and her husband does likewise, from a Tuti-nama (Tales of a Parrot): Thirty-sixth Night

c. 1560

Part of a set. See all set records

Mughal India, court of Akbar

(reigned 1556–1605)

Gum tempera, ink, and gold on paper

Overall: 20.3 x 14 cm (8 x 5 1/2 in.); Painting only: 10.2 x 10.3 cm (4 x 4 1/16 in.)

Gift of Mrs. A. Dean Perry 1962.279.242.a

Location

Did you know?

Mahrusa is married to the prefect of the city.

Description

Mahrusa lies slumped across the king’s tomb with a gold knife imbedded in her chest. She has committed suicide as penance for the king’s death. Mahrusa’s husband lies dead at her side, bloody knife in hand. On the right, a man watches the gruesome scene in shock. Following their deaths, Mahrusa, her husband, and the king become revered as martyrs.

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