|This image, by an unknown Mughal artist, features Shah Jahan (formerly
Prince Khurram). Shah Jahan's reign (1628-58) saw the Mughal empire
at the height of its prosperity, having absorbed the rich commercial
provinces of Gujarat and Bengal.
In the detail reproduced here, Shah Jahan is seen holding a durbar
(ceremonial assembly) in the public audience hall (also known as a
durbar) of his royal palace. The ruby and the tray of jewels indicate
his wealth, while his 'halo' symbolises the special enlightenment
given to emperors.
Some 20 years earlier, in 1631, Shah Jahan had begun the construction
of the Taj Mahal, in Agra, as a tomb for his favourite wife.
British Library (India Office) Add. Or 3853 (c. 1650)
By permission of The British Library