"Diving Dipper and Other Birds", Folio from the Shah Jahan Album 1510 - 1640

"Diving Dipper and Other Birds" is a folio from the Shah Jahan Album, created by the renowned Mughal artist Mansur between 1584 and 1626. This exquisite miniature painting showcases Mansur's mastery of naturalistic detail and vibrant colors. The artwork features a diving dipper bird in the foreground, its plumage rendered with remarkable precision. In the background, a mountainous landscape unfolds, adding depth and grandeur to the composition. The intricate floral border, a characteristic feature of Mughal art, frames the central image, adding a touch of elegance and refinement. The painting, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is a testament to the artistic brilliance of the Mughal Empire and Mansur's exceptional skill as a bird painter.