Many of the paintings illustrate stories from the Jataka tales, which are moralistic tales of the Buddha's previous lives. The Mahajanaka Jataka describes the future Buddha's birth as a prince named Mahajanaka. Mahajanaka's kingdom was usurped by his wicked uncle, and Mahajanaka became a merchant to gain the fortune that would allow him to regain his kingdom, in the process having many adventures. After many years his uncle died without sons, and his daughter Sivali was only allowed to marry a man who fulfilled certain conditions. Mahajanaka was able to do these, and so he married her and regained his kingdom.
This picture shows a scene from palace life, in which Mahajanaka sit on his throne, watching a dance performance arranged for his amusement by Sivali, who clearly has eyes only for him. Their high status is clearly shown by their rich jewelry and ornamentation, and by the servants surrounding them.