Hussainabad Picture Gallery – Makesaral

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Hussainabad Picture Gallery, Lucknow – Royal Portraits of the Nawabs

Overview

The Hussainabad Picture Gallery is one of the most remarkable heritage sites in Lucknow, located in the heart of the Hussainabad Heritage Zone. Situated adjacent to the Chota Imambara, the gallery is known for its stunning architecture and its valuable collection of historical paintings. It offers a unique glimpse into the glorious era of the Nawabs of Awadh, who ruled the region with grace, culture, and a flair for the arts.

Historical Background

Constructed in 1838 A.D. during the reign of Nawab Mohammad Ali Shah, the Picture Gallery was originally a baradari – a garden pavilion used for royal gatherings and events. Later, it was converted into a gallery to house portraits of the Nawabi lineage, making it an artistic and historical archive of Awadh's rulers. These portraits, painted by European artists, especially from Germany and Britain, combine Western techniques with Oriental subjects, resulting in a unique blend of artistic expression. The gallery today stands as a testament to the cross-cultural influences during the colonial period in India.

Architectural Highlights

Style: Indo-European fusion with Mughal overtones.
Structure: The building is rectangular with symmetrical arched facades, high ceilings, thick walls, and ornamental jharokhas (balconies).
Materials: Constructed with Lakhauri bricks and lime plaster, typical of 19th-century Awadhi architecture.
Interior: Cool interiors with wide halls, perfect for displaying large canvas artworks. The semi-dark lighting enhances the dramatic feel of the paintings.

The Paintings

Over a dozen life-size portraits of Nawabs, each painted with precision.
Known for optical illusions—particularly the eyes and footwear that seem to move with the viewer.
Depict Nawabs in ceremonial robes, complete with swords, medals, turbans, and elaborate jewelry.
Some paintings also show royal women in traditional attire, although most focus on male rulers.

Cultural Importance

Preserves Nawabi heritage in visual form.
Educates visitors about Awadh's regal traditions, costumes, and symbols of authority.
A source of academic interest for students of art history, architecture, and Mughal-era politics.

Visitor Guide

Location

Hussainabad Picture Gallery, Near Chota Imambara, Husainabad Road, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh – 226003, India.

Opening Hours

Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Open all days, including public holidays.

Entry Fee

Indian Adults: ₹20
Indian Children: ₹10
Foreign Nationals: ₹200
Camera Fee:
- Digital Camera: ₹10
- Video Camera: ₹25

Best Time to Visit

October to March: Cool weather, perfect for sightseeing
Avoid summers (April–June) due to high temperatures

Nearby Attractions

Chota Imambara – Exquisite interiors and chandeliers
Bara Imambara – Famous for the Bhool Bhulaiya (labyrinth)
Rumi Darwaza – Majestic Mughal-style gateway
Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar) – The tallest in India
Satkhanda – An unfinished tower with astronomical significance

Accessibility

By Road: 15 minutes from Hazratganj, Lucknow’s central shopping hub
By Rail: 6 km from Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station
By Air: 14 km from Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport

Tips for Visitors

Carry cash for entry and camera fees (cards may not be accepted).
Hire a local guide for in-depth stories behind each painting.
Photography is allowed with a fee; avoid flash to preserve artwork.
Combine the visit with a heritage walk of Old Lucknow.

Gallery