Artwork

Portrait of Suraj Singh Rathor, Raja of Marwar and Maternal Uncle of Shah Jahan: A Page from the Prince Khurram Album

Portrait of Suraj Singh Rathor, Raja of Marwar and Maternal Uncle of Shah Jahan: A Page from the Prince Khurram Album is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1600 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting depicts Suraj Singh Rathor, the Raja of Marwar and maternal uncle to the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.

About this work

History & Provenance

The provided sources do not contain specific records regarding past exhibitions or the detailed provenance chain leading to the museum's acquisition.

The work is dated to 1600 and is identified as a page from the Prince Khurram Album. While the primary classification lists the artist as unknown, other records attribute the painting to Bishandas, an Indian artist active approximately between 1610 and 1630. The piece entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is currently held.

The creation history links the portrait to the early seventeenth century, specifically capturing the likeness of Suraj Singh Rathor, the Raja of Marwar and maternal uncle of Shah Jahan, during the period associated with Prince Khurram.

The painting is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art in Cleveland, where it is identified by the accession number 2013.313. The work is attributed to the artist Bishandas and dates to approximately 1600. The provided sources do not contain specific records regarding past exhibitions or the detailed provenance chain leading to the museum's acquisition.

Overview

This painting depicts Suraj Singh Rathor, the Raja of Marwar and maternal uncle to the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Created by an unknown artist, the work is a single page extracted from the Prince Khurram Album. The portrait presents a serene image of the raja standing in a garden, characterized by a light green background adorned with flora. His attire is elaborate, reflecting the period's courtly aesthetics.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is Suraj Singh Rathor, identified as the Raja of Marwar and a significant relation to Prince Khurram, later Emperor Shah Jahan. He is shown holding a small green object, possibly a fruit or jewel, in his hands. His formal posture and rich garments, a pinkish-red robe, white sash, and intricate accessories, emphasize his royal status and the dignity expected of a prominent noble within the Mughal sphere of influence.

Technique & Style

The painting employs a detailed approach to render the subject's elaborate clothing and jewelry. Suraj Singh Rathor stands against a subtly rendered light green background, punctuated by delicate floral motifs and plants, suggesting a garden setting. The artist utilizes a palette that highlights the raja's vibrant attire, including orange pants and shoes with blue and gold trim. The overall composition conveys a sense of calm and composure, typical of formal portraiture from this era.

Portrait of Suraj Singh Rathor, Raja of Marwar and Maternal Uncle of Shah Jahan: A Page from the Prince Khurram Album, Bishandas

Artist & collection

Museum

Cleveland Museum of Art

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