Mughal influence on Art/Architecture

Akbar was the first Mughal to do Persian translations because of his interest in literature and religion, which many emperors later followed.

After the death of Akbar, an active member of the arts, his son Jahangir took over from 1605-1627. He had a strong artistic taste preferring simple paintings. Calligraphy samples and paintings were well known during his era and he believed he could recognize any painter's works.


However the man, Shah Jahan, known in India for his architectural achievements came to power in 1628. He commissioned a tomb for his wife after her death in 1631 and was completed sixteen years later. This tomb is called the Taj Mahal and is one of the best known monuments in India and in the world. There is an eightfold garden and pool in front and the building is made out of white marble, which makes it stand out even more. The tomb was made in the architectural style of a mosque, which was brought to India by the Mughals. It consists of domes and minarets, following the traditional mosque style. The Mughals were very influential to India and made a big impact on their art and architecture.