Sneha Sikand of Saffronart on the latest exhibition of Mughal artefacts from the golden period of Indian history

Emperor Akbar
Image credit: http://www.hotelcasatranoiroma.com

New Delhi: On view for the first time in Italy is a selection of over one hundred and fifty works produced during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Curated by Gian Carlo Calza, who has also written a soon to be published book about the Mughal emperor, the exhibit has been organized by the Rome Foundation Museum in collaboration with the Italian Embassy in New Delhi and the Indian Embassy in Rome. The three month event is being supported by the Italian Ministry for Cultural Heritage and Activities.

Known for the promotion of the arts and cultural exchanges during his reign, this exhibit on Akbar has been divided into five sections to explain in detail just how splendidly traditional practices were put to effect in his time.

The exhibition has a vast collection of works of art that aim to describe the classical India that circulates in the Western social imaginary – formed of Mughal Emperors, Rajas and Maharajahs – and was a destination for explorers, merchants and conquerors who arrived in that mysterious, rich and fascinating land from all over the world. From Mughal court watercolours, paintings and book illustrations, to extremely rare fragments of fabrics, carpets, objects and weapons studded with gems – it is a visual treat for visitors to understand Akbar’s great influence in world history.

In conjunction with the exhibition and to celebrate a hundred years of Indian cinema, a selection of films will be showcased to highlight the latest trends in film making in India. The exhibition is on view from 23 October, 2012 to 3 February, 2013.

Read more about the exhibition here.