"Page of Calligraphy Illuminated with Animals and Plants in a Field of Flowers", Folio from the Shah Jahan Album 1510 - 1640

This folio, now at the Met, was made by Nanha for the Shah Jahan Album, showcasing calligraphy intertwined with animals and plants. Consider the labor involved: creating the paper, mixing pigments, and applying delicate brushstrokes. The illuminator would have used finely ground minerals, plant extracts, and animal-based glues to create luminous colors. Gold leaf, meticulously hammered and applied, enhances the richness. The calligraphic text, likely verses of poetry, required years of training to master its fluid lines and balanced compositions. The natural motifs – animals, flowers, and plants – represent paradise, reflecting the Mughal court's opulence and appreciation for the natural world. This wasn't just art; it was a display of power, skill, and wealth, intended for the emperor's personal enjoyment. By recognizing the intense process and the materials involved, we understand that art can be a form of craft, labor, and cultural expression.