recto: ca. 1645; verso: ca. 1630-40
India
Object qualities
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Objectbook / magazine / album: Album leaf
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Type of arts & crafts
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MediumInk, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper
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SizeH. 15 3/16 in. (38.6 cm) W. 10 7/16 in. (26.5 cm)
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Geography detailsMade in
India -
Country today
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Daterecto: ca. 1645; verso: ca. 1630-40
Source of information
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Type of sourceDatabase “Metropolitan Museum of Art”
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Fund that the source refers toMetropolitan Museum of Art
Description
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A “shamsa” (literally, sun) traditionally opened imperial Mughal albums. Worked in bright colors and several tones of gold, the meticulously designed and painted arabesques are enriched by fantastic flowers, birds, and animals. The inscription in the center in the “tughra” (handsign) style reads: “His Majesty Shihabuddin Muhammad Shahjahan, the King, Warrior of the Faith, may God perpetuate his kingdom and sovereignty.”
Reconstructions of this ornament