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Artwork

Portrait of Emperor Alamgir (Aurangzeb)

Unknown , 1700

Portrait of Emperor Alamgir (Aurangzeb), by Unknown, unspecified, 1700
Portrait of Emperor Alamgir (Aurangzeb), by Unknown, unspecified, 1700

Portrait of Emperor Alamgir (Aurangzeb) is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1700 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This small painting depicts Emperor Alamgir, also known as Aurangzeb, the sixth ruler of the Mughal dynasty in India.

About this work

An old man with a long white beard sits at a small balcony window, a golden halo glowing behind his head.

An old man with a long white beard sits at a small balcony window, a golden halo glowing behind his head. He wears a simple white robe and a turban, his hands resting on the railing.

This is Emperor Alamgir, also called Aurangzeb, who ruled India in the late 1600s. The window, called a *jharokha*, was where rulers showed themselves to the public. Small portraits like this were gifts for loyal supporters. The halo suggests he ruled with divine approval.

To see more of his court, look up court of Alamgir (reigned 1658–1707).

Overview

This small painting depicts Emperor Alamgir, also known as Aurangzeb, the sixth ruler of the Mughal dynasty in India.

Subject & Meaning

The emperor is shown seated at a jharokha window, a balcony where he would appear to the public, conveying a sense of benevolence and divine authority through his halo.

Technique & Style

The portrait features a simple, dignified representation of the emperor, with a long white beard and traditional attire, set against a subtle background that emphasizes his figure.

History & Provenance

Created during the late 1600s, this portrait was likely a gift to a loyal supporter, as was the custom with such small-scale images.

Context

The jharokha window was a significant architectural feature in Mughal palaces, serving as a symbol of the ruler's connection to his subjects.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.