Q.8 Write about Mughal Paintings.
Ans. Mughal paintings flourished under the patronage of Mughal emperors, blending Persian, Indian, and European styles. They depicted court life, nature, and religious themes with intricate details and vibrant colors.
Key Features:
- Origins: Introduced by Humayun, inspired by Persian artists like Mir Sayyid Ali and Abdus Samad. Developed further under Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan.
- Themes: Court scenes, battles, portraits, and hunting expeditions. Depictions of flora, fauna, and religious texts like Razmnama (Mahabharata).
- Style: Realistic and detailed, with fine brushwork. Use of vibrant colors, gold, and perspective.
- Examples: Akbar’s Era: Hamzanama series (1,400 paintings on cloth). Jahangir’s Era: Focus on portraits (e.g., Jahangir’s self-portrait) and nature studies. Shah Jahan’s Era: Emphasis on architecture and courtly elegance
- Decline: Reduced patronage under Aurangzeb led to decline.
Mughal paintings are a testament to the cultural synthesis of the era, reflecting the grandeur and artistic vision of the Mughal Empire.
| Source: NCERT Class 12: Themes in Indian History – Part II , NIOS: Cultural Heritage of India |
| Keywords: Mughal emperors , Persian , European styles , court life, nature, and religious themes |
| Extra Info: Delhi Sultanate Architecture: Key Features Synthesis of Styles: Persian, Arabian, Central Asian, and Indian architectural elements blended.Engineering Innovations: Domes, arches, and minarets introduced.Local Craftsmanship: Indian artisans’ skills integrated into new structures.Islamic Simplicity & Indian Detail: Blending of plain Islamic structures with intricate Indian designs.Qutub Minar: 70-meter tapering tower with five stories, calligraphic engravings.Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: Early example, featuring calligraphy.Alai Darwaza: Gateway built by Ala-ud-din Khalji, known for its beauty.Hauz Khas: Hydraulic structure by Ala-ud-din Khalji.Tughlaq Architecture: Strong, massive forts and tombs (e.g., Tughlaqabad, Mohammad Tughlaq’s tomb).Afghan Rule: Tombs of Ibrahim Lodi and Sher Shah Suri (Sasaram).Practicality & Strength: Due to Mongol threats, buildings were sturdy and defensive.Indigenous Adaptation: Local styles were incorporated into the new architectural forms. |