The Delhi Durbar of Akbar II
Artist: Delhi School
Dynasty: Mughal Dynasty (India, 1526 - 1858)
Date: about 1820
Dimensions:
painting: 14 5/8 x 10 7/8 in. (37.1 x 27.6 cm)
framed: 18 1/4 x 14 1/2 in. (46.4 x 36.8 cm)
Medium: painting on ivory with carved ivory frame
Place of Origin: India
Classification: Paintings
Credit Line: Purchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Object number: 2004.55
Label Text:Painted on ivory and surrounded by an intricately carved ivory frame, this dazzling and detailed painting depicts the Mughal emperor Akbar II (ruled 1806–1837), seated on a peacock throne during a darbar, or royal audience, in the capital city of Delhi, India. The Mughals were a dynasty of Islamic rulers in India, originally from Central Asia. The painting would have been created to give as a presentation gift to one of the dignitaries and guests of the emperor who attended the darbar. Notice the British Resident, Sir David Ochterlony, who appears in military uniform in a position subservient to the emperor. In reality, the balance of power was just the opposite—the power of the Mughal emperors was almost at its end at the time this was painted, while the British presence in India was growing.
DescriptionThis object is an Indian miniature painting on ivory that depicts the Mughal emperor Akbar II on the Peacock throne during a darbar, or royal audience, in his capital city of Delhi.
Not on view
In Collection(s)