Portrait of Sultan Abdullah

Royal portraiture flourished in the Deccan, particularly under the Qutb Shahi’s during the 16th–17th Centuries CE. This artwork captures an intimate moment between a Nawab and his consort, reflecting the era’s courtly elegance, cultural refinement and aesthetic sensibility.

The painting portrays a Nawab seated regally on a golden chair, offering a flower to his consort. He has a thick moustache and a powerful posture, adorned in a white robe, red brocade pants and a gold-short Patka. His consort stands before him, dressed in a blue dupatta and red brocade paijama, holding a golden tabak. Both figures are lavishly decorated with gold jewellery. The background features a typical Deccan landscape with a clear sky, birds in flight, dense green Champa trees and pine-like trees, contrasting with the white architectural structures.