Embroidered Silk Portrait of the Mughal Emperor Akbar
Datec. 1850
MediumCotton, silk threads
DimensionsOverall: 22 1/2 x 18 1/2 in. (50. x 40.cm)
ClassificationsTextiles
Credit LineCourtesy of the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art
Object number85.14
DescriptionThought to be a portrait of the Mughal Emperor Akbar (r. 1556-1605 CE), perhaps due to the distinctive narrow moustache, this image was created not by delicate brushstrokes, but by tiny stitches: silk thread covers the entire surface, from his sarpech (turban ornament) to his heavily embroidered caftan. His heavy ropes of pearls, gem-set pendants, and floral seat certainly indicate a high-ranking gentleman of the court, if not the emperor himself. If it is meant to be Akbar, then the depiction is apt: a noted patron of arts, he was known for the high quality of his artisinal court workshops, where craftspeople and artists from all faiths worked together. The Mughal Empire was at its height under Akbar, with riches obtained through military campaigns and matrimonial alliances. As this portrait was made in the 18th century, as the Mughal Empire was waning, this is perhaps a moment of wistful artistic reflection on the era of peace and pluralism under Akbar, two centuries before.On View
On view
c 1790 CE
Dated 1271 AH (1854-1855 CE)
18th - 19th century
18th - 19th century
