AlbumsIndian17th century

Recto: Prince Khurram and Companions Visit a Hindu Sage; verso: Poem 37 by Hafiz penned and signed by Mir `Imad al-Hasani

1604, 1609

Description

The recto side of this folio features a painting depicting Prince Khurram, the future Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (r. 1627-1658). He sits on his knees with his hands clasped in front of him and faces a Hindu saint (sadhu). The holy man’s long hair and beard, as well as his legs bound in a yogic pose, suggests that he is a member of the ascetic Nath order. Naths believe that through yoga and its meditational exercises, they can achieve moksha (liberation) of the soul or even immortality. The Naths theological openness allowed association with non-Hindus, such as the Muslim Mughals. A stream divides the foreground, with two of Prince Khurram’s attendants on either side. In the background is a church steeple. The painting is surrounded by an illuminated border decorated a variety of animals in gold. On the reverse, there are three specimens of calligraphy in signed by master of nasta`liq script, `Imad al-Hasani known as Mir `Imad (1554-1615). The top specimen is in prose and the two vertical parts are both ghazal no. 37 by the Persian poet Hafiz Shirazi. It is probable that the left specimen is a copy of Mir `Imad's original calligraphy on the right, which was done out of respect (naql). They both carry Mir `Imad's signature and are dated 1018 H (1609-10), Isfahan (right); and Shawwal 1012 H (March 1604) (left). The text is contained within “clouds” that are set against gold ground decorated with small, colorful flowers. The verso side bears a border of blue paper with gold painted flowers.

Classification

Albums

Medium

Opaque watercolor, ink, and gold on paper

Culture

Indian

Period

Mughal period

Century

17th century

Division

Asian and Mediterranean Art