Episode 217: Zebras and Zodiacs: Jahangir’s Art Revolution

Hosts: William D. Rimple and Anita Anand
Guest: Sue Strong, Curator of "The Great Art, Architecture and Opulence" at the Victoria and Albert Museum (VA)
Release Date: January 2, 2025
Podcast: Empire by Goalhanger

In this engaging episode of Empire, hosts William D. Rimple and Anita Anand delve deep into the artistic revolution during Emperor Jahangir’s reign within the Mughal Empire. Joined by Sue Strong, the curator behind the splendid VA exhibition "The Great Art, Architecture and Opulence," the discussion navigates through the intricate tapestry of Mughal art, architecture, and the complex relationships that shaped this golden era.

Exhibition Overview: The Great Art, Architecture and Opulence

Sue Strong sets the stage by explaining the curatorial focus on three pivotal Mughal emperors: Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan. Suited to the exhibition’s narrative, these emperors represent the zenith of Mughal art and architecture, capturing the evolution from Akbar’s foundational hybrid styles to Jahangir’s refined aesthetics and Shah Jahan’s iconic masterpieces like the Taj Mahal.

Sue Strong shares, “We aimed to balance familiar masterpieces with lesser-known gems to provide both recognition and discovery for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.” [05:16]

Jahangir’s Architectural Innovations

The conversation transitions to Jahangir’s architectural contributions, highlighting his profound appreciation for nature. Unlike his predecessors, Jahangir emphasized creating serene spaces that harmonize with natural landscapes. Notable among his architectural endeavors are the pavilions at Ajmer and Kashmir, which reflect his love for water bodies and lush groves.

Jonathan Jones elaborates, “Jahangir had a profound love of the natural world, which is evident in everything from his memoirs to the pavilions he commissioned.” [06:30]

Symbolism in Coinage: Zebras and Zodiacs

A fascinating aspect of Jahangir’s reign discussed is his innovative approach to coinage. Jahangir introduced zodiac coins, meticulously crafted with calligraphy on one side and zodiac signs on the other. These coins were not only financial instruments but also symbols of imperial power and artistic expression.

Sue Strong highlights, “The zodiac coins were a novel invention, intricately detailed and a testament to the fusion of art and governance during Jahangir’s time.” [11:27]

The Courtly Painters: Mansoor and Abul Hassan

Central to Jahangir’s artistic legacy are his court painters, particularly Mansoor and Abul Hassan. These artists were pivotal in elevating Mughal painting to unprecedented heights, blending Persian influences with indigenous styles to create vibrant and detailed miniatures.

Jonathan Jones remarks, “Throughout Jahangir’s memoirs, he frequently references his painters, guiding their work with a meticulous eye, even if he seldom names them directly.” [21:07]

Iconic Paintings: The Zebra and the Squirrel

Several masterpieces from Jahangir’s court are examined, with a spotlight on Mansoor’s renowned paintings:

• The Zebra: Commissioned to depict a rare African zebra, this painting exemplifies Jahangir’s fascination with exotic fauna. The intricate detailing captures every stripe and nuance, symbolizing the emperor’s pursuit of novelty.

  Jonathan Jones praises, “Jahangir described the zebra as a masterpiece, noting the graceful black lines that adorn its form.” [31:26]

• The Squirrel: An exquisite portrayal of squirrels in an autumnal landscape, this painting showcases the delicate artistry and vibrant use of color, capturing the playful essence of these creatures.

  Sue Strong enthuses, “The squirrel painting is not just adorable; it’s a masterclass in detail, with each leaf and fur meticulously rendered.” [34:05]

Jahangir and Shah Jahan: A Complex Legacy

The episode delves into the strained relationship between Jahangir and his son, Shah Jahan. Their tumultuous relationship, marked by rebellion and the eventual usurpation of Jahangir’s architectural legacies, adds a dramatic layer to the artistic narrative.

Jonathan Jones explains, “Shah Jahan rebelled against Jahangir, leading to a deliberate erasure of his father’s monuments as he sought to establish his own imperial image.” [09:22]

Art as Propaganda: Depicting Power and Obsession

A particularly intriguing segment explores how art served as a medium for propaganda during Jahangir’s reign. An example discussed is the surreal painting of Jahangir aiming an arrow at Malik Ambar’s head, laden with symbolic elements reflecting Jahangir’s internal struggles and imperial anxieties.

Jonathan Jones analyzes, “This painting is a tapestry of symbols, from the owl representing ill omens to the caricatured head of Malik Ambar, illustrating Jahangir’s obsession and the empire’s military challenges.” [39:32]

The Decline of Jahangir and His Enduring Legacy

As Jahangir’s health declined in his later years, so did the vigor of the arts he championed. The discussion touches upon the final years of his reign, his withdrawal from active patronage, and the subsequent overshadowing by Shah Jahan’s monumental projects.

Sue Strong summarizes, “Jahangir’s legacy is multifaceted—from the perfection of Attar perfumes to the refinement of jade craftsmanship, his reign was a crucible of artistic innovation that left an indelible mark on Mughal culture.” [44:22]

Conclusion: The Artistic Pinnacle of the Mughal Empire

The episode concludes by affirming Jahangir’s pivotal role in shaping Mughal art and architecture. Through his patronage of master painters, innovative architectural projects, and symbolic coinage, Jahangir not only enhanced the empire’s cultural richness but also set the stage for the grandeur that would follow under his successors.

William D. Rimple urges listeners, “Go and see the show, book by book, and immerse yourself in the opulent world of Mughal art as curated by Sue Strong.” [45:20]

This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of Jahangir’s artistic revolution, blending expert insights with vivid descriptions of masterpieces that continue to captivate audiences today. Whether you're an art historian or a casual enthusiast, this deep dive into Mughal artistry provides a nuanced understanding of how emperors like Jahangir wielded art as a tool of power, personal expression, and cultural legacy.