Question

Hamzanama paintings were produced during the reign of?
A. Humayun
B. Akbar
C. Jahangir
D. Shah Jahan

Answer 1

Hint: The paintings are about the Prophet’s uncle, Amir Hamza and is one of the most important commissioned artworks of its time. It was distinct as it broke the norm of paintings being made on cotton cloth instead of paper. It also marked the rise of a new Mughal style, a blend of Persian and Indian traits.

Complete answer: Art under these rules often had emerald tones and focused on the emperor, hence mostly portraits were made. The art style had rigidity. There was, however, a shift towards architecture after Shah Jahan came to power.

Option A. Humayun ruled over what is present-day Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and north India. His original name was Nasir-ud-din Muhammad. He was the second Mughal ruler, son of Babur.
Option B. Akbar the Great. He was revered for his successful military conquests, development in technology like firearms and was one of the most tolerant rulers, promoting inter-religious harmony. He was the third Mughal to rule. This is the correct answer.
Option C. Jahangir was named Nur-ud-din Muhammad Salim and was the fourth Mughal emperor. It was during his reign when the first representatives of the East India Company came to the ports in Surat. His name means conqueror of the world’.
Option D. Shah Jahan is most famous for building the Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. He was originally called Shahab-ud-din Muhammad Khurram and had 13 wives. While he was an accomplished ruler, his decadence emptied his coffers, along with his sons.
Therefore, option B is correct.

Note: Nilgai by Ustad Mansur (an example of the trend of painting realistic animals and plants), Govardhan, Emperor Jahangir weighs Prince Khurram by Manohar Das and Khamsa of Nizami (made for Akbar) are some famous works of this era.