Posthumous portrait of Emperor Jahangir under a canopy (recto); Calligraphy (verso)
1650
unspecified
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
Posthumous portrait of Emperor Jahangir under a canopy (recto); Calligraphy (verso) is a 1650 unspecified by Unknown, a Baroque work, depicting Mughal, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.
A man in a jeweled turban sits on a golden throne under a red canopy. He holds a globe and a book, surrounded by light. This painting was made after the emperor died, so it’s not how he really looked. The artist showed him with a bright halo to suggest he was almost holy. The tiny details—like the flowers in the border—are typical of Mughal art, where every inch matters. If you like this, look up 17th century.
Jahangir, the fourth Mughal emperor, was remembered for his greatness long after his death. Ruling from 1605 to 1627, he laid the foundations for long-term trade and diplomatic relations with various nations of Europe, most notably England and Portugal. He oversaw the transition of Mughal India into a global power during a time that can be considered the international Age of Exploration. This posthumous portrait depicts Jahangir amid the trappings of wealth and power with the light of divine sanction shining behind his head. A white marble railing demarcates his imperial space.
Jahangir holds a ruby or spinel, thought to be a talisman for military victory.
Read the full account in the museum source.
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