Mughal Empire Costume and Art Quiz

Mughal Period (1526-1737) History

• The Gupta Empire collapsed in the 6th century, fragmenting North India into smaller kingdoms.
• Rajputs emerged as an influential cultural and political force in the late 9th century.
• Mughal rulers appreciated India's rich heritage and sophisticated textile culture.
• The six most important Mughal emperors were Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb.
• Babur founded the Mughal Empire in 1526.
• Akbar, Babur's grandson, ruled from 1556-1605 and expanded the empire.

Art and Craft During Mughal Era

• The Mughal era was a golden age for Indian art, craft, and culture.
• The Mughals brought Persian techniques and styles to India.
• They introduced inlay work, glass engraving, carpet weaving, brocades, and enameling.
• Mughal miniature paintings influenced other styles, like Rajasthani and Kangra Pahari.
• The Peacock Throne is a prime example of Mughal gem inlay work and metalcraft.
• Mughal miniature painting, pietra dura, and enameled jewellery are notable examples of craft traditions that continue today.

Miniature Paintings: Important Source for Mughal Costumes

• Mughal painting, a South Asian style, developed from Persian miniature painting during the Mughal Empire (16th-19th centuries).
• Miniature paintings offer valuable insights into Mughal court life and the clothing/costumes of the time.
• The paintings depicted the costumes and adornments of people living in medieval India.
• The costumes of royalty and ordinary people were realistically rendered by Mughal artists.
• Examples, like the three dancing ladies, show the fashions of the medieval period.
• Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan patronized the art of painting.

The Great Rulers

• Babur's reign from 1526 to 1530
• Humayun's reign from 1530 to 1539 and 1555 to 1556
• Akbar's reign from 1556 to 1605
• Jahangir's reign from 1605 to 1627
• Shah Jahan's reign from 1628 to 1658
• Aurangzeb's reign from 1658 to 1707

Babur

• Born in 1483, died in 1530.
• Was fond of beauty and military prowess.
• Established the Mughal empire.

Costumes Worn By Babur and Courtiers

• Costumes were similar to those from Babur's country of origin (Central Asia).
• Common people wore typical Indian clothing, specifically a dhoti.
• Babur's writings document various costume types like the Nimcha, Jama, Yaktahi jama, Charagab, Postin, Jiba, Chafan, Tahband.

Humayun

• Babur's son.
• Took over the empire in the wake of his father's death in 1556.
• Introduced Persian elements in court attire.
• Noted for seeking advice from astrologers on clothing choices.
• Maintained a specific treasure house within his palace with garments for his court.

Akbar

• Born around 1542, died in 1605.
• Considered the greatest Mughal Emperor.
• A third Mughal Emperor of Timurid descent.
• His reign ushered in the style.

Costumes During Akbar's Time

• Muslims initially followed Persian dress customs.
• During Akbar's reign, however, Rajput styles were incorporated.
• Coats (gown-like) were worn with Churidar pyjamas.
• Turbans were often coloured, with precious stones sometimes incorporated.
• Unique types of footwear and accessories were developed.

Jahangir

• Became Emperor in 1605 after Akbar's death.
• His favourite son was Khurram ( later Shah Jahan).
• Introduced advancements in cloth production and printing.
• Embroidered Kashmiri flowers on textiles.

Costumes During Jahangir's Reign

• Turbans and churidar pyjama styles were influenced by Akbar's reign, yet tailored and coloured to the tastes of Jahangir's time.
• New footwear and accessories became popular..
• The horn-shaped shoes of that era, as depicted in miniatures, show a clear distinctive design.
• "Nadi." garment popular during this reign.

Shah Jahan

• Became emperor after Jahangir, succeeding to the throne in 1627.
• Frequently referred to as the Golden Age of the Mughals, or one of the most prosperous eras in Mughal history.

Shah Jahan's Era: Costumes

• Mughal ornamentation, particularly on garments, experienced a resurgence.
• Garments were lavishly adorned with floral designs and precious stones.
• Detailed embroidery distinguished high-status attire.

Aurangzeb

• The last major Mughal ruler.

Aurangzeb's Reign: Costumes

• Elaborate clothing styles continued.
• The Mughal Empire expanded its influence over clothing types and adornments.
• Traditional designs were preserved during this period, but with continued developments in pattern and embroidery.

Source of Information

• Mughal art absorbed Persian and Hindu aesthetics, producing a unique fusion.
• Miniature paintings, portraits, and court representations were crucial sources of information on royal style.
• Natural motifs, Mughal court scenes, and detailed decorative elements were used.

Costumes

• Early paintings from Rajasthan show costumes similar to those of other regions.
• Some garments, like the jama (coat), were common to both Hindus and Muslims.

Men's Costumes

• The jama (coat) was a widespread male garment, with variations in length, sleeves, and style.
• Its role among Hindu communities is also observed.

Women's Costumes

• Muslim women often wore gowns, called Peshwaz.
• Dresses were full and ankle length, often intricate.

Mughal Garments

• Jamas displayed a variety of neck and sleeve styles.
• Burqas, ornate vests, and other overcoats enhanced lavishness.
• Takauchiyah was a prominent coat variation.
• Double-breasted types of jamas were also common.

Garments: Materials

• Silks, wools, and cottons were traditional Indian fibres.
• Fabrics like jamdani (cotton), and intricately woven textiles were popular.

Mughal Headwear

• Turbans were crucial in men's attire.
• Styles varied based on personality and status.
• Women wore decorative odhanis that are elaborately ornamented.

Foot wear

• High boots, boat-like shoes, and intricately decorated slippers were used.

Mughal Accessories

• The range of ornaments was extensive.
• Swords, rings, brooches, jewels were among the notable embellishments.

Head Ornaments

• Turbans, tiaras, and necklaces were prevalent.
• Unique brooches, jewelry, and ornaments reflected status and taste.