Portrait of the Aged Akbar by Govardhan, c. 1640–50. Gum tempera and gold on paper. Cleveland Museum of Art.
Portrait of the Aged Akbar · Govardhan · c. 1640–50 · Cleveland Museum of Art

Portrait of the Aged Akbar

Govardhan

Year
c. 1640–50
Medium
Gum tempera and gold on paper
Collection
Cleveland Museum of Art
License
Public Domain

Govardhan’s ‘Portrait of the Aged Akbar’ dates from circa 1640–50. Gum tempera and gold on paper. The Cleveland Museum of Art.

The portrait shows Akbar in his later years. His posture is dignified, reflecting his status as an emperor. The use of gold highlights the richness associated with the Mughal court.

Govardhan worked during the Mughal era, a period known for its rich artistic patronage. Little is known about his personal life.

Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, Ohio, https://clevelandart.org/art/1971.78

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