Megha Raga c. 1780

This delicate drawing, Megha Raga, is part of a series depicting musical modes, or ragas, that evoke different emotions and are associated with specific times of day or seasons. The identities of the artist and the precise dating remain unknown, but we can consider the historical and cultural context that informed its creation. Originating in India, the painting reflects the cultural synthesis of the Mughal period, where Persian artistic styles blended with indigenous Indian traditions. As you look closer, notice how gender roles are carefully depicted. The male figure, perhaps a prince, is adorned with gold and appears to be the center of attention, surrounded by female musicians. In many traditional Indian paintings, women are often portrayed in relation to men, emphasizing their roles as companions or devotees. These images are as much about power dynamics, as they are about devotion. The painting invites us to consider how art shapes and reflects societal norms, even as it seeks to transcend them through the emotional power of music and image.