History Miniature Art and Women : Medieval Deccan 15-17 Century A.D.

Contents: Foreword. Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Women's history. 3. Historiographical background. 4. Political, economic and social background of medieval Deccan [c15-17A.D.]. 5. Miniature paintings in medieval Deccan[c16-17 A.D.]. 6. Women in medieval Deccani Kalams or miniature paintings [c15-17 A.D.]. 7. Conclusion. Appendices: i. Nizam Shahis of Ahmadnagar. ii. Adil Shahis of Bijapur. iii. Qutb Shahis of Golconda. iv. Royal women in medieval Deccan. Bibliography. Index.

"The strong diversity of historical processes in medieval Deccan calls for an equally diversified sources. By far, many works have been undertaken largely based on literary sources and in a marked departure from this trend the present study makes an attempt to fathom the depths of history through an artistic mediation, mainly miniature paintings. This book is first of its kind where a historical, chronological, thematic and critical evaluation of women in the region is made.

As a powerful medium of historical sources, the miniature paintings present a kaleidoscopic picture of women in their various roles and capacities and their popular perception. The representation of women in miniature paintings executed in Ahmednagar, Bijapur and Golconda between 15 and 17 centuries are analysed.

The work provides interesting insights into significant aspects such as women's history, the social, economic and political context of medieval Deccan, which gave impetus to a rich legacy of miniature paintings, the portrayal of women and finally the implications of the representation to the social and artistic history. Thus, in a way, the study opens up new vistas in the understanding of women's role in particular and the Deccan history in general. The book will be of great interest to the scholars, researches, art-lovers and general readers." (jacket)