Album Page with Calligraphic Specimen First Half of the 16th century (calligraphy); 17th/18th century (borders)

This Mughal artwork from the first half of the 16th century, depicts a seated figure in a richly decorated setting. The album page features calligraphic specimens, a hallmark of Mughal art, and ornate borders added in the 17th or 18th century. The artist, a Mughal, employed intricate details and vibrant colors to portray the figure, emphasizing their status and the grandeur of their surroundings. The composition showcases a blend of artistic traditions from the Indian subcontinent and Persia, contributing to the development of the unique Mughal style. This album page, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, serves as a window into the refined artistic sensibilities of the Mughal era.