Vintage Ivory Portraits of Shah Jahan & Mumtaz Mahal

Antiques : By Period, Style : India : Taj Mahal

 

This couple's expression of love was turned into one of today's World's Wonder known as the "TAJ MAHAL". Shah Jahan ordered the construction of the "Taj Mahal" mausoleum in memory of his favorite wife Muntaz, located in Agra, India. Mumtaz Mahal; meaning "beloved ornament of the palace" is the common nickname of "Arjumand Banu Begum" (her original name), born in April, 1593 in Agra, India. (info.partially obtained from Wikipedia). She was known as a woman of legendary beauty, virtue and wife of Prince Khurram who would later ascent the Peacock Throne as Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. These two Ivory portrait are simply superb with exceptionally hand painted details. Mumtaz Mahal is wearing a ceremonial head dress and the ornate depicts a Peacock's tail. Peacock is the national bird of India and for centuries their admiration of nature have been manifested and represented in their arts & culture. Look closely and admire the artistic resemblance of the peacocks feather's eye and crown, right on the top edge of the head dress. This exceptional artistic masterpiece not only defines her beauty, but her social status defined by the ostentation of precious jewels, pearls,quality materials and handcraft-ship to her costume. She wears fine bracelets on her arms, ring on thumb and pinky finger and the Henna paint on the palm of her left hand as well. There is no visible signature on this unique interpretation of artistic talent, but the quality of work speaks by itself. Shah Jahan fashion garment display amazing patterns with vibrant colors that catches you eye. His jewels are extraordinary, where Ruby,Emerald and Pearls are in abundance on his garment. His facial expression is very defined and captivating. These two portraits are in excellent condition, but Mumtaz portrait reflect a small moisture damage located by her waist line and her colors are not as bright as her husband's portrait. Each portrait measure 2 3/4 inches long by 2 inches wide and each are individually set on a carved floral ebony wood that measures 6 inches tall by 4 inches wide.

Item ID: J-001144