Jaswant Singh of Jodhpur (reigned 1635–1678)

c. 1660–65

Northwestern India, Rajasthan, Rajput kingdom of Jodhpur

Medium

Gum temper and gold on paper

Measurements

Image: 23.3 x 12.8 cm (9 3/16 x 5 1/16 in.); Overall: 28.7 x 16.3 cm (11 5/16 x 6 7/16 in.)

Credit Line

Andrew R. and Martha Holden Jennings Fund 1981.5

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Location

Not on view

Description

Mughal emperors forged alliances with the Hindu rulers of territories under their control by offering them positions of military authority within the Mughal court. Jaswant Singh, the raja (ruler) of Jodhpur, served as a military officer under the emperors Shah Jahan (reigned 1627–58) and Alamgir (also known as Aurangzeb; reigned 1658–1707). The flowering plants at the end of his sash became popular during the reign of Shah Jahan. His military accouterments include two swords and a stabbing dagger. The sensitive shading and mode of dress are closely based on Mughal styles, indicating Jodhpur’s close allegiance to the Mughal empire.