The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Padshahnama (Chronicle of the King of the World) refers to a genre of works written as the official visual history of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s reign. It serves as a primary source for the history of the period and is a masterpiece of Mughal manuscript illustration.
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Padshahnama is the official chronicle of the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. The chronicle of Emperor Akbar’s reign is titled the Akbarnama. The most significant version of the Padshahnama was authored by Abdul Hamid Lahori.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The illustrations in the Padshahnama are considered the zenith of the Mughal miniature painting tradition. The style is noted for its technical perfection, rigid formality, and the use of deep, jewel-like colours, distinguishing it from the more naturalistic style of Jahangir's era or the dynamic style of Akbar's era.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The manuscript was a lavish imperial project reflecting the immense wealth of Shah Jahan’s court. It is characterized by the extensive use of expensive materials, including gold for borders and illumination, and lapis lazuli (a semi-precious stone) to create vivid blue pigments.
Key Takeaway: The Padshahnama is the illustrated chronicle of Shah Jahan's reign, renowned for its opulent use of gold and lapis lazuli, representing the formal and technically perfect height of Mughal miniature painting.