Question

Mughal painting reached its zenith during the period of:

• A. Akbar
• B. Aurangzeb
• C. Humayun
• D. Jahangir

Hint:

Akbar = Expansion, Jahangir = Perfection, Shah Jahan = Architecture, Aurangzeb = Decline.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Early Mughal painting.
Mughal painting began during Humayun’s reign with Persian influences.
It developed under Akbar with large illustrated manuscripts and dynamic narrative scenes.
Step 2: Zenith under Jahangir.
Jahangir (1605–1627) brought Mughal painting to its highest refinement.
He emphasized naturalism, portraits, and depictions of flora and fauna.
Painters like Ustad Mansur became famous for their realistic work.
Step 3: Option analysis.
- (A) Akbar: Great patron, but the art was more narrative than refined.
- (B) Aurangzeb: Decline of art due to his orthodox policies.
- (C) Humayun: Introduction phase only.
- (D) Jahangir: Correct. Mughal painting reached artistic excellence during his reign.
Step 4: Conclusion.
The zenith of Mughal painting was during Jahangir’s reign.