Akbar’s Accession

Copied Michael Mode, Akbar's Accession, 1997, purpleheart, holly, rosewoods, ebony, and pink ivory, overall: 19 x 19 x 12 in. (48.3 x 48.3 x 30.5 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of an anonymous donor, 1997.12A-B

Artwork Details

Title
Akbar’s Accession
Artist
Date
1997
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
overall: 19 x 19 x 12 in. (48.3 x 48.3 x 30.5 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of an anonymous donor
Mediums
Mediums Description
purpleheart, holly, rosewoods, ebony, and pink ivory
Classifications
Subjects
  • Abstract — geometric
  • Asian Indian
Object Number
1997.12A-B
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1997.12A-B

Artwork Description

Michael Mode is inspired by sixteenth-century Indian Mughal architecture. This piece is named for Akbar, one of the greatest rulers of the Mughal dynasty who built many large temples, fortresses, and tombs within the empire. Mode's elevated vessels recall ornate Mughal designs, and he believes the inspirations of these ancient architects have been channeled through his work. The pattern in Akbar's Accession is formed from laminations of holly and purpleheart, and the squares of color stretch and curve around the vessel.