The Iraqi Steed Jugaldan c. 1720

Bhavani Das rendered this image of 'The Iraqi Steed Jugaldan' with opaque watercolor on paper. The horse, an enduring symbol of power and prestige, stands as a testament to its cultural importance across millennia. Consider the equestrian statues of Roman emperors, the steeds of Renaissance nobles, and even the horses found in ancient cave paintings. Each depicts not merely an animal, but a projection of human ambition and control. Here, in the Mughal context, the horse also transcends simple representation, becoming emblematic of imperial might and refined elegance. The image evokes a collective memory, a shared cultural understanding. It touches something deep within us, a subconscious recognition of the animal's enduring significance. In this elegant, almost stoic, depiction, Das captures the essence of the horse. Its very stillness conveys a powerful presence, engaging us on an emotional level that transcends time and culture. Observe how this ancient symbol, this primal image of power, has been passed down through history, resurfacing time and again, each time imbued with new meaning, new emotional weight.