Shah Alam II

This painting portrays the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II (r.1759-1806) and princes in darbar. The strict hierarchy of the Mughal court is represented by the placement of the figures in relation to the ruler. Shah Alam is seated on a golden throne, with a small parasol above and a nimbus, or halo, encircling his head. These are all symbols of his royal status. The ruler's ministers and courtiers surround him and three princes face the throne to the right. Visitors to the court are depicted on the lower level, outside the pavilion, indicating their secondary status. The architecture is richly decorated with marble inlay and intricate carpets cover the floor.