The Mughal Empire covered northern and central India. It was perhaps the world’s most civilised centre of power. Its glittering court at Agra, Delhi and Lahore, was filled with all the magnificence and luxury that Asia could supply.

Asians and Europeans were mutually curious. The Emperor Jahangir (c. 1605-1627), like his father Akbar, prided himself as a connoisseur and an artistic patron. He was very interested in the outside world and his many court artists were kept busy, copying and interpreting examples of European life.