Portrait of the Emperor Awrangzib, or possibly Dara Shikoh (d. 1659), brother of Awrangzib
Artist
Unknown
Date18th century
(not assigned)India
MediumOpaque watercolor and gold metallic paint on paper
Dimensions33.7 x 21.5 cm (13 1/4 x 8 7/16 in.)
ClassificationsNon-Western Miniatures
Credit LineBequest of Charles B. Cohn in memory of Stuart P. Anderson
Object number1985.133
Label TextThis portrait depicts the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb (r. 1658-1707). His regnal title, Alamgir, meaning “World Conqueror” was fitting; he was an accomplished military leader and through his relentless campaigns, he expanded the Mughal Empire to its greatest extent, ruling nearly all of the Indian subcontinent. Aurangzeb presided over a population of over 158 million subjects and shaped India into world’s largest economy. However, his legacy was not without controversy. He executed his eldest brother and rightful heir, Dara Shikoh (1615-1659), to claim the throne. Additionally, some scholars also argue that that his piety and devotion to Islam impacted his creation of laws and policies, resulting in abandoning his predecessors’ promotion of religious tolerance, heavily taxing non-Muslims, demolishing Hindu temples, and prohibiting certain activities, such as gambling and the consumption of alcohol.
Aurangzeb is shown here with conventional iconography that denotes his royal status, such as the fly whisk in his hand, which is an adaptation of indigenous imperial symbolism, and the
the halo encircling his head, representing his divinely sanctioned rule. The weaponry, which includes a katar (punch-dagger) and sword, are not only part of his opulent court attire, but they also serve as symbols of the justification of his rule, representing Aurangzeb’s military might and power.
ProvenanceCharles Cohn/Stuart Anderson, Woreceter MAOn View
Not on view
