Muslim nobleman

Gouache with gold on paper.

A young Muslim noble holds a flower as a mark of refinement, while his archer’s thumb-ring attests to his skill as a huntsman. This sensitive bust portrait follows earlier Mughal models, though its outline drawing simplifies and enhances the subtle curves of the lips, nostril, ear, eye, and brow. The painter probably worked at a court such as Kishangarh, where Mughal stylistic influence had been strong.

To view a high-resolution version of this image and for further information please visit the Yousef Jameel Online Centre at the Ashmolean.