Portret van Sayyid Muzaffar; ten tijde van Sultan Abul Hasan heeft hij als opperbevelhebber (peshwa) gediend c. 1686

This is an image of Sayyid Muzaffar, an esteemed commander during Sultan Abul Hasan’s reign, painted by an anonymous artist. He is holding a rolled document, an important attribute signifying authority and knowledge. The scroll echoes throughout history, from ancient Roman leaders bearing scrolls of law to medieval scholars clutching sacred texts, or even Renaissance diplomats holding treaties. This act of bearing a scroll serves to visually root the portrayed individual in a lineage of power and wisdom. Think of ancient Egyptian scribes with their papyrus, or even prophets holding scripture. Consider also how gestures can transcend time, carrying intense emotional weight. Note his posture, his face, and the simple gesture of presenting the document. These convey states of both composure and deep contemplation. In each era, these symbols resurface, adapting and evolving, reminding us of the cyclical nature of history. Their recurrence is a testament to our shared human experience, eternally echoing through art and culture.