BSR - A Learned Man (AKM906)

BSR - A Learned Man (AKM906)

https://www.agakhanmuseum.org/collection/artifact/learned-man-akm906

"The subject of this single-page drawing has been most often described as a learned man, but he also possesses qualities that may indicate he is a dignified Sufi. However, he wears rings on both little fingers, which might not reflect the modesty of a Sufi. This drawing was attached to a folio for an album assembled in 1611–12 for Prince Khurram. Nineteen years old at the time, the prince would later be known as Shah Jahan. The reverse bears a panel of calligraphy in the hand of the prince dated 1605. The illuminated borders at the top and bottom seem contemporary with the drawing.[1] This Indian drawing of an Iranian topic is attributed to Basawan (1556–1600) by Stuart Cary Welch, and is executed in the nim qalam (half-pen) technique, a specialty of Basawan at the Mughal court.[2]" (Aga Khan Museum, https://www.agakhanmuseum.org/collection/artifact/learned-man-akm906)

Attributed to Basawan

1575–80

Images (c) Aga Khan Museum

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India