Indian Painting under the Mughals, A.D. 1550 to A.D. 1750 c16.1.3

c16.1.3

Heavily carpeted pavements, painted sandstone pillars, gilt marble walls, embroidered velvet ceiling cloths, and pearl-fringed canopies, were some of the extravagancies introduced by this luxurious potentate as a fit setting for his court. Among the group of officials on the left of the picture, some of the members of the Persian mission may be observed, being distinguished by their costume which differs from that of the Mughals. Saluting the king by putting his right hand up to his forehead, is the Persian ambassador, while beside him is a Mughal official reading from a small tablet the personnel of the mission, which is being introduced by name and rank. With him are several Mughal councillors, but farther back are a number of Persians bearing golden trays containing jewelled cups and precious ornaments, a present from their imperial master, Shah Sufi, who had just succeeded his more famous father Shah Abbas. Below will be seen the remaining and more substantial portion of the Safavid ruler’s princely offering, consisting of five richly caparisoned Arab horses, each in charge of a Persian groom. On the right of the picture are some of the lesser court officials, while standing on the low platform in the middle are two handsome youths waving yak-tail *chauris* (fly-whisks), the symbol of royalty, another attendant engaged in a similar duty being in the emperor’s rear.