Dust Muhammad was an expert Mughal miniature painter in the 16th century who had played an important role in the development of early Mughal painting. He is particularly important because his career connects the Safavid artistic tradition of Iran with the emerging Mughal school of painting in India. He is associated with the city of Herat and recognised as one of the pupils of Kamāl al-Dīn Behzād. He is thought to have initially worked at the Safavid court of Shah Tahmasp I in Tabriz, where he participated in the production of illustrations of many important manuscripts. He then worked for a brief time under the patronage of Emperor Humayun’s brother, Prince Kamran Mirza, and then afterwards served as one of the leading artists in the imperial court under the emperor himself. This painting titled ‘Humayun and his Brothers in a Landscape’ shows an important blend of the emerging Mughal style, the artist’s Persian art tactics, the natural world and the royal life. The surroundings show a richly populated mountainous environment where plants, animals, human figures and rocks are arranged systematically and carefully. Humayun is shown seated at the center while being surrounded by royals, attendants, musicians and other people of importance. The emperor’s placement also offers a clear hierarchy and establishes his imperial authority and power. Color plays an essential role in creating the visual richness of the painting. The brightly colored costumes of the people contrast with the darker rocks and green vegetation. Gold and fine detailing also contribute in giving the art a sense of elegance and refinement. The landscape also gives its own special element to the painting. Dramatic mountains, waterfalls, flowering trees, shrubs and rocks create a dense and highly decorative environment. Thus, this painting remains as a testament to the artist’s creativity, and his keen sense of observation. It reflects the royal world of the Mughal court while presenting nature as an active, beautiful and symbolic component of the scene.
