1610
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
Zu'lfiqar Khan is a 1610 paint by Nanha, a Baroque work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.
This portrait shows a man in profile, dressed in fine Mughal robes. He holds a bow in his left hand, a quiver of arrows at his side. The artist painted him against a plain green background with gold leaf details. The work honors Zu'lfiqar Khan, a trusted servant of the Mughal emperor. An inscription names the artist as Nanha and mentions Khan’s skill with a bow. If you like this style, check out Nanha’s other works.
The portrait depicts Zu'lfiqar Khan, a nobleman recognized for his archery skills and loyalty to the Mughal emperor, identified in inscriptions alongside the artist Nanha’s name. Executed in opaque watercolor on paper, the work features a fine gold-painted border on an indigo ground, signed by the illuminator Dowlat. Originally part of Jahangir’s collection, it was later remounted for Shah Jahan’s album. The painting was previously owned by a Lord Minto before being auctioned in 1925.
Read the full account in the museum source.
Rafi Khawar, popularly known as Nanha, was a Pakistani actor and comedian. He started his film career in 1966 and earned several awards, including three Nigar Awards.
See the richer artist page
