Mumbai, Jan 18 (IANS) A 16th century illustrated manuscript in a Mumbai museum will be restored with funds from Bank of America through its conservation project, officials said here Wednesday.

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai, (CSMVS Museum) will receive vital funding for the conservation of Anvar-i Suhayli, a 16th-century illustrated manuscript with a compilation of delightful fables from the Panchatantra.

“In these economically-challenged times, and as art conservation consumes ever greater portions of museum budgets, the need for private arts funding has become even more critical. We are proud of our 140-year presence in India and appreciate the opportunity to partner with CSMVS, Mumbai, to preserve this cherished piece of Indian history,” said Kaku Nakhate, country head India, Bank of America.

The manuscript dates back to Emperor Akbar’s atelier in the early Mughal miniature style and carries an A++ grading, the highest grading available that positions it as an artwork of unique national importance.

“In my knowledge, this is among the first instances of a bank adopting a work of art for conservation in a museum in India,” said Sabyasachi Mukherjee, director of the museum.

The project in India will be jointly led by museum’s senior curator Vandana Prapanna and head of art conservation Anupam Sah.