Shah Jahan c. 1656 - 1658

This small portrait, executed in pen and ink, depicts Shah Jahan, the Mughal Emperor of India, in profile. Rembrandt van Rijn, the celebrated Dutch painter, created this work in 1656-1658. The drawing, housed in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, showcases the artist's keen observation and masterful handling of line. The subtle shading adds depth to the subject's regal attire, a detail that resonates with the grandeur of the Mughal dynasty. The drawing offers a glimpse into Rembrandt's fascination with exotic cultures and his ability to capture personality within a compact composition.