recto: "Portrait of Prince Danyal", Folio from the Shah Jahan Album 1475 - 1599

"Portrait of Prince Danyal," a folio from the Shah Jahan Album, was created by Manohar in the early 17th century. In this period of Mughal rule, artistic expression became intertwined with imperial power, reflecting both its grandeur and its complex social dynamics. Manohar, painting during a time of established conventions, offers us more than just a regal figure. There is a certain ambivalence present in the work. The prince is depicted in a way that challenges traditional masculinity, with his bare chest and relaxed pose hinting at a more vulnerable, human side. The artist’s careful attention to detail is evident in the intricate border decorations, which serve to elevate the portrait. This piece serves as a reminder of the nuanced ways in which identity and power were negotiated through art, inviting us to consider the personal stories embedded within the grand narratives of history.