Gouache heightened with gold on paper, depicting a standing figure wearing a turban and holding a sword, laid down on an album page with polychrome borders decorated with scrolling flowers, outer margins flecked with gold

Ex-Kevorkian Collec🗹tion, sold in t☂hese rooms, April 17, 1975, lot 164.

In good overall condition, som areas of abrasion to the legs of the figure, above the head, and in the sky, otherwise colours good and gold bright, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This portrait of Shah Jahan, 'Ruler of the World' can be attributed to the imperial court artist Hashim on the strength of the precision and control in the painting's execution, typical of the artist, who was active during the reigns of both Jahangir and Shah Jahan. Described as the 'Indian Ingres', Hashim painted portraits almost exclusively, and and so masterful is his work that his portraits are considered masterpieces of seventeenth century Mughal art.

A further portrait by Hashim of Shah Jahan (in old age) is illustrated in M.C. Beach, The Grand Mogul, Imperial Painting in India 1600-1660, Williamstown, 1978, p.127, no.45.