Radiant World

Imperial opulence, political intrigue, and natural beauty at the Mughal court of JahangirThe Mughal Empire flourished on the Indian subcontinent during a spectacular golden age of art and cultural exchange. This publication celebrates the contributions of Jahangir (r. 1605–27), the fourth Mughal emperor in a lineage of brilliant rulers. His reign witnessed a thriving atmosphere of aesthetics, science, and philosophy that unfolded alongside a rising tide of global commerce. Dynastic treasures included in this book range from allegorical paintings of the emperor’s dreams to inscribed jewels, carpets, and other luxury objects collected at court. Jahangir was also a keen naturalist who commissioned exquisite nature studies that became hallmarks of Mughal style. The emperor’s illustrated memoirs, excerpted in this volume, provide fascinating insights into his unique perspective and on the development of art in this magnificent era of Indian history. In this in-depth exploration of Jahangir’s life, readers willUnderstand the art of the early seventeenth-century Mughal court through the life of one of its most recognized rulers Explore more than 200 objects from the court of Jahangir, ranging from painted manuscript pages of the natural world to ornately decorated arms and armorLearn of the trade relationships connecting the Mughal Empire to the art of Europe, China, and classical antiquity.Read texts by international experts elucidate this crucial period in Indian history, as well as an interview with award-winning author Salman Rushdie that illuminates how the Mughal period continues to capture the public imagination.An essential book for anyone interested in Indian art and history, this catalogue will also appeal to readers interested in the natural sciences, gemology, and textiles.Published by The Metropolitan Museum of Art/Distributed by Yale University Press Exhibition Schedule:The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York(April 19–August 15, 2027)