Two court scenes, one with a woman presiding the other with a man [Nur Jahan and Jahagir?]

Artist Unknown, Provincial Moghul [possibly Murshidabad]

19th century (?)

Pen and ink, watercolor, and gilding

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Two court scenes are depicted side-by-side, each featuring a seated figure on a throne surrounded by attendants. Below each court scene is a view of a stepped well or pool with figures. Two court scenes are depicted side-by-side, each featuring a seated figure on a throne surrounded by attendants. Below each court scene is a view of a stepped well or pool with figures. This pair of court scenes appears to depict Nur Jahan and Jahagir, rulers of the Moghul Empire, 1611-1627. The elaborate gold decoration in the images suggest the might and wealth of their court. That wife and husband are shown as equals is what sets this royal couple apart from others. Jahagir became emperor in 1605, when the great empire encompassed most of modern day northern India and Pakistan. Unfortunately, he was indecisive, feckless, and addi