Artwork
Akbar
Akbar is a paint painting by the Mughal Painting artist Jagan. It dates from 1592 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This painting depicts an assassination attempt on Mughal emperor Akbar in 1564. It is one of the illustrations from the Akbarnama, the official chronicle of Akbar's reign.
Subject & Meaning
The scene shows Akbar on horseback, clutching an arrow, as his retainers pursue and kill one of the would-be assassins. Akbar is dressed in a simple white robe, while the attackers appear small in the background.
Technique & Style
The painting is a collaborative work by artists Jagan, Bhawani Kalan, and Madhav, who used bright colors to convey action and power.
History & Provenance
The Akbarnama was written by Abu'l Fazl between 1590 and 1596, and this illustrated version was likely created between 1592 and 1595. The manuscript remained in the Mughal royal library until it was purchased by Major General John Clarke in India between 1858 and 1862, and later acquired by the V&A in 1896.
Artist & collection
Artist
In the late 1500s, Jagan painted vibrant Mughal miniatures that put emperors and nobles on paper.
