The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s exhibition, Radiant World: Jahangir and Mughal India, brings together 230 works to document the 17th-century reign of Emperor Nuruddin Jahangir.
Running through late 2026, the collection highlights how the Mughal Empire became a center of artistic achievement, scientific curiosity, and intellectual inquiry during his rule from 1605 to 1627.
The exhibition draws inspiration from the emperor’s own memoir, the Jahangirnama, to trace his transformation from a rebellious prince into a powerful ruler and patron. The works on display, which include illustrated manuscripts, paintings, textiles, and jeweled objects, demonstrate the emperor’s personal interests, particularly his role as a naturalist who documented botanical and zoological life.
Among the highlighted pieces are natural history studies by the artist Ustad Mansur, including a depiction of an African zebra that was observed from life at the court. These sit alongside celebrated portraits by artists such as Abu’l Hasan, Bichitr, and Balchand, as well as dynastic treasures like emerald and crystal cups.
Beyond the emperor’s own contributions, the exhibition examines the role of Jahangir’s Persian queen, Nur Jahan. Her influence is illustrated through innovations in textiles, dress, and architecture, providing insight into the power held by women within Mughal court life and politics.
The collection situates these developments within a global context, showing how the court functioned as part of a network of exchanges connecting India with the Ottoman and Persian spheres, Europe, Africa, and wider Asia.
The exhibition is made possible by De Beers and Reliance Industries Limited, with additional major support from the Placido Arango Fund, the Sherman Fairchild Foundation, the Diane W. and James E. Burke Fund, and the Gail and Parker Gilbert Fund.
