Apart from the countless number of images of the Taj Mahal produced for popular consumption as paintings, watercolours and photographs, the Taj was also painted on other media, such as ivory. The Gallery has another medallion (acc.no. 2404.), the first Indian work of art to enter the collection, which depicts two figures, probably Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, whose popularity among foreign visitors as a subject for souvenirs is outstripped only by that of the Taj Mahal.

The Taj Mahal was built as a mausoleum by Shah Jahan to the memory of his beloved wife after her death in 1631, had an enormous impact on all foreign visitors who admired, and continue to admire, its architectural perfection and romantic genesis.

Asian Art Department, AGNSW, February 2012.