Who is likely represented by the figure politely bowing down behind Prince Balwant Singh?
1. Krishna
2. Nainsukh
3. A courtier
4. Manaku

2

Answer: The figure politely bowing down behind Prince Balwant Singh is likely to represent the artist of the painting, Nainsukh.

Balwant Singh looking at a painting with Nainsukh- The painting depicts Prince Balwant Singh of Jasrota closely observing a painting that he is holding in his hands. A figure standing behind him politely bowing down probably represents none other than the artist of the painting, Nainsukh. This painting is probably a rare, where Nainsukh paints himself with his patron. Balwant Singh is seated in his palace, overlooking the lush green landscape teeming with trees. The time depicted appears to be that of early evening and Nainsukh’s clutter-free composition is itself indicative of quietude, peace and tranquillity that are suggestive of Balwant Singh’s temperament in the painting. He is smoking hukka, something that, he usually, indulged in during spells of break between work. Musicians are deftly placed towards the outer edge of the painting so as to indicate their presence. Their positioning, in the painting, suggests that they are not clamouring to be heard but ‘softly’ producing music, thus, enhancing the calmness, while Balwant Singh remains engrossed in the details of the painting that depicts Krishna.