Power and Prestige in 16th and 17th Century Mughal South Asia

Tracing their lineage from both Chinghis Khan and Timur, the Mughal dynasty (1526-1858) at its greatest extent ruled over the entire South Asian region and its rulers created one of the most luxurious empires of their time. As a Muslim elite reigning over a local South Asian population, it was important for the Mughal emperors to create a strong visual identity to aid in consolidating their rule. Focusing on the reigns of three emperors, Akbar (r.1556-1605), Jahangir (r.1605-27) and Shah Jahan (r. 1628-58), this 2-day course will thematically explore how these rulers invested in extensive patronage of the arts in order to create and project a visual language of power and prestige. This took multiple forms, including the production of magnificent miniature paintings, iconic architecture and dazzling, bejewelled objects. By contextualising their creation within the political, historical and artistic milieu of the Mughal court, it will be seen that several factors were continuously in play in the wider sphere of their making.

Suitable for
18+

Admission
£288 full price, £260 over 60s, £195 concessions

Website
https://www.vam.ac.uk/event/D2ODv9oN/power-and-prestige-in-16th-and-17th-century-mughal-south-asia-2018

Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk/se000168?id=EVENT576650