Question

Which of the following statements best reflects the contributions of Humayun and Akbar to the development of Mughal painting?

• A. Humayun commissioned the Akbarnama and formed a large imperial atelier.
• B. Akbar introduced Mughal painting by bringing Persian artists to India during his exile.
• C. Humayun laid the foundation of Mughal painting by bringing Persian painters to India, while Akbar expanded it by assembling a large team of Indian artists and initiating major illustrated works like the Hamzanama and Akbarnama.
• D. Akbar and Humayun focused solely on religious themes in painting, avoiding any secular narratives.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Humayun laid the foundation of Mughal painting by bringing Persian painters to India, while Akbar expanded it by assembling a large team of Indian artists and initiating major illustrated works like the Hamzanama and Akbarnama.

Mughal Paintings under Different Mughal Rulers.. Humayun The foundation of Mughal painting was established by Humayun during his period of exile in Persia and Afghanistan. Upon his return to Delhi, he was accompanied by two of Persia’s most renowned painters, Mir Sayyid Ali and Abdus Samad. Akbar During Akbar’s reign, Mughal painting evolved rapidly and reached new heights of artistic excellence. He commissioned numerous artworks and took a personal interest in overseeing their completion, paying meticulous attention to detail and the artistic techniques used. To support this artistic expansion, Akbar brought together over 100 painters from across India, including notable artists such as Daswant, Basawan, Keshav, and Farrukh Beg. Some of the finest examples of Mughal art from his time are found in the Akbarnama, authored by Abul Fazl. Akbar also initiated several grand painting projects, such as the Tutinama—a Persian episodic tale divided into 52 parts—the Hamzanama, which recounts the adventures of Amir Hamza, as well as illustrated versions of works like Gulistan and Darab Nama.