Islam gained influence in India under the Mughals in the sixteenth century.
1526 - 1858
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The Mughal painting tradition: an introduction
Mughal miniatures combined intellectual erudition with artistic sophistication to create objects of everlasting beauty.
Shah Jahan’s portrait, emeralds, and the exotic at the Mughal court
Emeralds symbolized the exotic and the rare—the perfect emblem to encapsulate the wealth and aspirations of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.
Humayun’s tomb
This tomb, built in 1570, is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent.
Portrait of Shah ‘Abbas I of Iran
Likenesses of rulers and dignitaries played a significant role in diplomacy.
Exploring Color in Mughal Paintings
Curious about the vibrant colors in Mughal paintings? Learn about the art of imperial painting here.
The Taj Mahal
This huge white-marble mausoleum is recognized the world over for its splendor, symmetry, and stunning gardens.
Bichitr, Jahangir Preferring a Sufi Shaikh to Kings
Who’s that in the plumed hat? From emperors to kings, the painter Bichitr mastered court portraiture.
Illustration from the Akbarnama
Under Akbar the Great, the Mughal style of painting blended Indian, Persian, and Western artistic traditions.
