India
Anonymous Court Painter, 19th century

This dazzling and intricate painting on ivory depicts the Mughal emperor Akbar II (ruled 1806-1837), seated on the famous Peacock Throne during a darbar, or royal audience, in the capital city of Delhi, India. The Mughals were a dynasty of Islamic rulers in India, originally from Central Asia. The painting would have been created to give as a presentation gift to the dignitaries and guests of the emperor who were in attendance at the darbar. Notice the British Resident, Sir David Ochterlony, who appears in military uniform in a position subservient to the emperor. In reality, the balance of power was just the opposite—the power of the Mughal emperors was almost at its end at the time this was painted, while the British presence was growing.

Painting on ivory, about 1820
Purchased with Funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey, 2004.55