2-732-454 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Jahangir, early 1600s. Emperor Jahangir had tiny portraits of himself made to give as gifts to his friends, family, and courtiers as a sign of royal favor. These portraits were mounted and worn as jewels or turban ornaments. The carpet or textile under his hands references the covered rail of a balcony where the emperor addressed the public three times a day to hear complaints or petitions.