Ahmednagar, Bijapur and Golconda
Painting traditions of the main Deccani courts.
The essentials
The three main Deccani courts each made a distinct contribution.
Ahmednagar
The Nizam Shahi dynasty ruled Ahmednagar. One of the earliest Deccani illustrated manuscripts is the Tarif-i-Hussain Shahi, a poem praising Hussain Nizam Shah I, painted in the 1560s. Its paintings show the king, the queen and court women, with rich colours, gold and Persian-style decoration combined with local Deccani elements.
Bijapur
The Adil Shahi dynasty ruled Bijapur. The Nujum-ul-Ulum ("Stars of the Sciences"), an encyclopaedia-like manuscript with many illustrations of stars, weapons and symbols, was produced in 1570. The greatest patron was Ibrahim Adil Shah II, a poet, musician and lover of art who wrote the Kitab-i-Nauras, a book of songs. Bijapur painting is famous for its poetic, mystical mood, gold, rich colours and portraits of the sultan.
Golconda
The Qutb Shahi dynasty ruled Golconda, a centre of the diamond trade with links to Persia and European traders. Golconda painting includes portraits of sultans and courtiers, and scenes of court life, music and dance, with rich colours and much gold. Later, Deccani painting continued at Hyderabad.
Key points
- Ahmednagar: Tarif-i-Hussain Shahi; Hussain Nizam Shah I.
- Bijapur: Nujum-ul-Ulum; Ibrahim Adil Shah II; Kitab-i-Nauras.
- Golconda: Qutb Shahi portraits and court scenes; prosperity from trade.
Exam tips
- Ibrahim Adil Shah II is the most frequently asked patron.
- Learn manuscript names and match each to its court.
Common mistakes
- Assigning Kitab-i-Nauras to a Mughal emperor; it is by Ibrahim Adil Shah II.