The subject of the painting is Shehab-ud-din Muhammed Khurran, also known as Shah Jahan ("king of the world"), who ruled Hindustan from 1628-1658. This is a modern painting in a traditional style.
Shah Jahan ruled at the height of the Mughal empire and is best known for his architectural endeavors, including the Taj Mahal, which he dedicated to his wife. In the painting, Shah Jahan wears a jeweled turban, pink trousers with a print of green leaves, and a diaphanous tunic with a jeweled belt. He holds a sword with a straight blade. The background is pale green and flowers grow at the shah's feet. The print is mounted on a cloth frame.
The painting is in the style of Kailesh Raj, who is part of a family of traditional painters from Jaipur and a master artist with apprentices. Raj is schooled in Jaipuri painting, which he learned from his family. He also studied Mughal painting.
Further explanation of Shah Jahan and Mughal painting: https://nyti.ms/2OqFDPL
- Subject Matter: Full-Body Image
- Inventory Number: 2014.1.107
- Collections: Sacred World Art Collection