TSM Accession: P-1750
Pleach No: PIF/000DMP29
Title: Abdul Hasan Tana Shah
Style: Deccani Miniature
Artist: Unknown
Medium: Water colour on paper
Dimensions: 21 x 11 cms
Period: 16th / 17th Century CE
Rights: Telangana State Archaeological Museum, Hyderabad
Documented by: Pleach India Foundation, Hyderabad
The miniature depicts, Abul Hasan Tana Shah, the last Sultan of Golconda.
A portrait of a king in a powerful pose. He is shown in a formal pose, holding a flower in a Mughal-inspired style. His attire reflects his royalty: golden clothing, a jeweled turban, and a sword. This portrayal is typical of North Indian and Deccani royalty. The large, billowing robe is a characteristic of late Golconda paintings. The use of strong colors creates a serious mood, but the artwork lacks the dynamic lines and liveliness found in other styles.
Unlike other Golconda rulers depicted in action, Abul Hasan is shown in a formal pose. The standardized portrayal reflects his focus on aesthetics rather than military or administrative skills, which some believe caused to the kingdom’s decline.