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How did Mughal miniature painting change during Jahangir’s reign?
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Mughal dynasty
Emperors (from left, seated) Jahangir, Akbar, and Shah Jahan are depicted with their ministers (foreground) and Prince Dara Shikoh in a watercolor from India, c. 1630–40.
During the reign of Jahangir (1605–1627), Mughal miniature painting underwent a significant transformation, shifting away from the dynamic, bustling compositions characteristic of the Akbar period.12
Key changes included:
- Shift in Subject Matter: The tradition of illustrating manuscripts began to decline in favor of portraiture and natural history studies. Jahangir commissioned elaborate court scenes and precise studies of flora and fauna, often featuring rare specimens.21
- Aesthetic Refinement: The bright, vibrant palette of the earlier era was replaced by more subdued and harmonious colors. Brushwork became exceptionally fine, and compositions became more formally ordered, reflecting the strict etiquette of the Mughal court.12
- Depth and Realism: Portraits evolved to convey deeper psychological insight into the subjects. Artists like Abu al-Hasan, Bishandas, and Ustad Mansur achieved high levels of technical mastery.12
- European Influence: Through diplomatic exchanges, artists incorporated European techniques, including new approaches to shading, perspective, and the use of light and shadow to suggest volume. This influence is also visible in the occasional use of halos in royal portraits.1