Mumtaz Mahal

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Empress Mumtaz Mahal has rightly been called the vigor of Shahjahan's life, and the inspiration behind his greatest creation, the Taj Mahal. She is portrayed here in her most usual and widely accepted physiognomy and attire. Opinions vary as to her real likeness in absence of an authentic version of her person. She has, however, invariably been portrayed in her contemporary and subsequent portraits as having an oval face, large forehead, prominent eyes, a well defined neck, thin composed lips, a slanting, sharp nose, a shapely turning chin made out of receding cheeks, long arms terminating in fine long fingers and, above all, her usual semi halo like type crown studded with large rubies, emeralds, diamonds and a few sapphires.

The artist has further added to her personality by giving a rose in her hand. She was but the fragrant rose in Shahjahan's life.

Mumtaz Mahal passed away at Burhanpur, in 1631, while giving birth to a child. She was cremated there, and only when the Taj Mahal was completed were her mortal remains shifted there.

It is befitting that the inspiration behind the Tajmahal has herself been painted here on marble. Along the raised circumference of this marble saucer are embossed entwined, dense flowery motifs and creepers in 24 karat gold. These are reminiscent of the floral motifs appearing as incised painted patterns on the Tajmahal. Indeed it was during the reign of Shahjahan that Indian artists refined such depictions, transforming them into a hallmark of Mughal decorative style.

This description by Nitin Kumar, Executive Editor, Exotic India.

These unique artworks come along with a suitable gift box, and also a wooden stand - as shown in the accompanying image on the left.