17

Question 17

Who among the following Mughal Emperors shifted emphasis from illustrated manuscripts to album and individual portrait?

AOptions

A
A) Humayun
B
B) Akbar
C
C) Jahangir
D
D) Shah Jahan

BSolution

While Mughal miniature painting flourished under various emperors, Emperor Jahangir's reign (1605-1627) is particularly noted for a distinct shift in artistic emphasis. Jahangir was a keen connoisseur and patron of art, and during his time, there was a pronounced move from elaborate illustrated manuscripts (which were more characteristic of Akbar's reign) towards individual portraiture, naturalistic studies of flora and fauna, and the development of royal albums. Jahangir encouraged artists to focus on realistic depiction and highly detailed work, reflecting his personal interest in observation and scientific accuracy.

Diagram for Q17

CStrategy

For questions on art and architecture during different rulers, focus on the unique contributions or stylistic changes under each emperor. Understand how patronage influenced artistic trends. Create a comparative analysis of art under different Mughal emperors.

DSyllabus Analysis

This question falls under Indian History, specifically Medieval Indian History, focusing on art and culture during the Mughal Empire, particularly painting.

EQuestion Analysis

Medium. Requires specific knowledge of the evolution of Mughal painting styles under different emperors.