Farrukh Beg

Farrukh Beg

Farrukh Beg was an Iranian artist who lived from 1545 to 1619. He was born and trained in Persia, but spent most of his working life in Delhi, India. Beg is credited as one of the artists who brought the tradition of Persian miniatures to the Mughal Empire in India. His work is known for its bright colors, his use of plants in his scenes, and his talent for depicting the folds of draperies in clothing.

Beg was born as Farrukh Husayn in Iran. As one of the Kalmyk people, Beg’s first art training was in Khurasan in northeastern Iran. Beg’s early career took him to Kabul, Afghanistan, where he worked for Mirza Hakim who presided over the city. Hakim was impressed with Beg’s work. As the half-brother to Emperor Akbar of the Mughal Empire, Beg had some sway. After Hakim’s death, Beg moved to Delhi, India, to work for the emperor, himself.

In 1585, Farrukh was given the honorary title of “Beg”, likely from Emperor Akbar. Beg worked for the Mughal court between 1585 and 1590. After Emperor Akbar acquired Kandahar for the Mughal empire using diplomatic means, Beg left the city of Delhi. 

In 1590, Beg went to Bijapur, India, working under his birth name of Farrukh Husayn for Ibrahim Adil Shah II, who was the king at the time. His talent was recognized and rewarded, and he stayed in Bijapur for a time. By 1605, the same year as the death of Emperor Akbar, Beg was back in Delhi working directly for the new leader of the Mughal Empire and son of Akbar, Emperor Jahangir. Jahangir was an avid supporter of Beg, paying him well for his work and touting his talents. Jahangir has said “unrivaled in his age”.

Beg died in Agra, India, in 1619, while still under the service of the Mughal court.

Back to the Artists page.

You can learn about different art movements here.