"Portrait of Ibrahim 'Adil Shah II of Bijapur", Folio from the Shah Jahan Album 1510 - 1645

Hashim painted this portrait of Ibrahim 'Adil Shah II of Bijapur around the 17th century, using opaque watercolor, ink, and gold on paper. The meticulous layering of translucent washes of color is key to understanding the refinement of this piece. Look closely at the modeling of the face, the subtle gradations giving it volume and life. Similarly, the delicate floral patterns surrounding the central image, executed in gold, speak to incredible control of the artist's materials, and the labor-intensive work involved. These techniques, passed down through generations of artists working in imperial workshops, have imbued the painting with cultural and social meaning. While Hashim was a master in his own right, this painting is less about individual genius than a culmination of collective knowledge, and shared aesthetic values. Considering the materials, making, and context is essential if we are to fully understand the meaning behind this artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.