Portrait of Shah Jahan 1700 - 1720

This 18th century Mughal miniature painting, "Portrait of Shah Jahan", depicts the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in a standing pose. The anonymous artist portrays the emperor in elaborate clothing with a sword in one hand and a fan in the other, standing against a turquoise background. The painting is a prime example of Mughal miniature painting, which was characterized by its detailed, realistic style. The artist's use of vivid colors and meticulous attention to detail, along with a prominent halo, creates a sense of grandeur and power, reflecting Shah Jahan's royal status. The painting, housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is a beautiful and insightful look into Mughal portraiture and the emperor’s reign.