Ferocious Falcon

Description

Depictions of hunting birds as princely accessories in portraits of Indian rulers are not uncommon, but paintings of individual birds are highly unusual. Clearly, this was an important and much-loved falcon. Posed much like a ruler or fine gentleman in profile, the bird has a distinctive white and gray feather pattern that has been captured with great care. The matching ochre-colored hood and leg tassels also speak to its status as a highly prized, trained raptor.