This painting is based on one of the most famous Jātaka stories. Most of the painting takes place in the king's palace.
King Śibi is known for his compassion and benevolence. He is tested by Indra, who appears as a pigeon, pleading to be saved from a falcon. Though Śibi offers to protect the pigeon, he does not turn the falcon away. Instead, he cuts flesh from his thigh for the falcon.