About
The Padshanama is one of the most exquisite manuscripts ever created, chronicling the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan (1628–1658). Originally gifted to King George III in 1799, this treasure now resides in the Windsor Castle Library—where participants will have the rare opportunity to view the surviving folios first-hand during a special visit.
Of the original work, 44 stunning illustrations survive—depicting royal marriages, grand ceremonies, battle processions, and hunting scenes. These pages are alive with wondrous animals draped in golden fabrics, intricate textiles, musicians, and courtly splendor. Yet, the true brilliance of the Padshanama lies in its masterful use of color: a harmonious balance that creates dazzling textures without losing unity.
This course offers a unique opportunity to explore this extraordinary collection and learn the fundamentals of Mughal painting. Alongside studying portraits, patterns, and compositions, participants will also learn how to prepare paper and pigments for traditional painting. They will then practice techniques such as flooding and fine shading.
Please note bookings for this course will close on 15 January in order to complete security clearance checks for visitors to the castle.
In collaboration with Royal Collection Trust.
Image: Courtesy of Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of ability and experience welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
What days do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 26 – 30 January 2026, 10:00 – 16:30
How many students can attend?
14 people
Where will this course take place?
Schedule:
Monday, 10:00 – 12:45 at Windsor Castle (arrive at 9:45 at the latest to make it through security)
Tuesday – Friday, 10:00 – 16:30 at the School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
Refreshments:
Tea/coffee will be provided during a short break in the morning. Please bring a packed lunch and any drinks you may require during the day. We will have a brief lunch break at approximately 12:30 – 12:45.
Important information about Windsor Castle:
On the day of your class please arrive at Windsor Castle by 9:45 am.
Windsor Castle Security
Prior to the event an automated email will be sent asking that you enter your details into a security questionnaire. This information is collected solely for the purpose of security screening and will be deleted soon after your visit. Participants must bring proof of identification, details of which will be sent to each ticket-holder.
As you would expect, a high level of security is in place at Royal residences. Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated.
What should I bring to class?
If you would like to sketch at the Castle, pencils and notebooks are allowed. Photography is not permitted.
For Tuesday – Friday, please bring:
- Watercolour brushes, preferably sable. Sizes 000, 2 and 5 are recommended. Either rounded or pointed brushes will work. Click to see an example.
- Please also bring your own paint palette so you can take your paints home with you to continue your work. Some examples here: Circular or Daisy.
All other materials will be provided in the class, including Indian squirrel hair brushes.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for Seniors/60+, full-time students and people who are unemployed/in receipt of benefits.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrollments to run.
The School may take and use images of you and/or your work for course advertisement and social media purposes.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Samantha Buckley is an Indian miniature painter who has designed work for The Highgrove Shop in Tetbury, and Traditional Arts in London. In 2010 Samantha contributed two painted elephant sculptures to Elephant Parade, an event in London raising money for the Asian Elephant. In 2011 she was invited by the renowned artist Dr Desmond Lazaro to undertake a one-year apprenticeship in India to extend her knowledge and technique of miniature painting, developing work for an exhibition in London at The Ben Brown Gallery. She completed her MA at The School in 2006, receiving a distinction for her studies in miniature painting.
