Empire 217. Zebras and Zodiacs: Jahangir’s Art Revolution
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Jan 2, 2025 
Susan Stronge, curator of the V&A exhibition on Mughal artistry, explores Emperor Jahangir's unique reign. She discusses how Jahangir was a pivotal patron of art, commissioning vibrant paintings that showcased nature and incorporated women artists like his wife, Nur Jahan. Discover the intriguing use of art as propaganda, particularly through the creation of zodiac coins. Stronge sheds light on the artistic achievements and complex relationships among Mughal artists, revealing a rich tapestry of culture that flourished under Jahangir's rule.
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Sub-Editor Sensationalism
- Newspaper sub-editors write sensational headlines, often misrepresenting journalists' work.
- William Dalrymple's article on Rumi was misrepresented, causing outrage from Persian readers.
Mughal Art Focus
- The exhibition focuses on Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan as they represent the peak of Mughal art.
- Humayun's contributions, while important, lacked sufficient visual material for inclusion.
Jahangir's Pavilions
- Jahangir's love for nature is evident in his architecture, focused on pavilions in natural settings.
- He commissioned simple, pillared chambers with painted interiors, often near water.