corundum, India.12, history.1, quality.10, Tajikistan.12, spinel, gems, Indian lapidary

Aziz’s Thrones, Tents and their Furniture Used by the Indian Mughuls examines the ceremonial furnishings and portable splendour of the Mughal court in India. Drawing on contemporary chronicles, travellers’ accounts and other historical sources, the work describes imperial thrones, richly appointed tents, canopies, carpets, cushions and related furnishings used in palaces, encampments and public ceremonies. Particular attention is given to the materials, decoration and costly workmanship of these objects, including the extensive use of gold, silver, textiles, enamel and precious stones. The celebrated jewelled thrones of the Mughal emperors form an important part of the study, illustrating the extraordinary quantities of diamonds, rubies, emeralds, pearls and other gems employed in imperial display. The book shows how thrones, tents and their furnishings transformed both permanent and temporary settings into expressions of Mughal sovereignty, wealth and magnificence.