GS PrelimsHistory (Medieval India)Mughals2019

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

A

Humayun

B

Akbar

C

Jahangir

D

Shah Jahan

Correct Answer: Option C

Explanation

1. Mughal painting originated during the reign of Humayun and flourished significantly under Akbar, with a major focus on large projects involving the illustration of manuscripts like the Hamzanama and Akbarnama. 2. Jahangir, Akbar's successor, had a distinct artistic taste. While manuscript illustration continued, his reign saw a marked shift in emphasis towards naturalistic depictions of flora and fauna, and particularly towards individual portraits. 3. Jahangir was a keen connoisseur of art and preferred smaller, more refined paintings. He commissioned numerous portraits of himself, courtiers, and even common people. 4. The practice of compiling paintings and calligraphy into albums (Muraqqas) became highly fashionable during Jahangir's time, replacing the large-scale illustrated manuscripts as the primary focus of imperial patronage. 5. Shah Jahan's reign saw a continuation of portraiture but with a greater emphasis on formality and grandeur, and a significant shift towards architectural pursuits.

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