"Portrait of Jadun Rai Deccani", Folio from the Shah Jahan Album 1505 - 1647

Hashim painted this portrait of Jadun Rai Deccani for the Shah Jahan Album with opaque watercolor, ink, and gold on paper. Note the way Jadun Rai holds his sword, its tip pointed downwards. This gesture, seemingly simple, carries echoes across cultures and centuries. Think of classical depictions of defeated warriors, their weapons grounded in submission. Here, it speaks not of defeat, but of controlled power, a restraint that hints at deeper strength. Consider, too, how this differs from the triumphant upward-pointing sword, a symbol of conquest and dominance seen in many Western traditions. The grounded sword reminds us that true authority often lies not in aggressive display, but in the ability to temper force, a concept that resonates with enduring psychological themes of self-mastery and inner peace. This quiet pose, imbued with layers of meaning, engages us on a subconscious level, evoking a sense of respect and contemplation. The symbol resurfaces, transformed yet familiar, in each new context, revealing the complex tapestry of human experience.