Treasures of the Mughals and the Maharajas: the Al Thani collection

Abstract

"Published on the occasion of the extraordinary exhibition in Venice, the book allows readers to immerse themselves in the jewellery traditions of the Indian subcontinent, from the Mughal period to the modern day, installed within an evocative and ethereal setting. The evolution of gem-setting and jewellery is shown through over two hundred and seventy exceptional pieces from The Al Thani Collection, together with major works on loan from prestigious institutions and private collections. Famous historic Indian diamonds, spectacular precious objects and legendary pieces of jewellery are brought together to represent the evolution of taste and technique in India's jewelled arts over five centuries. From the Great Mughals to the Maharajas: Jewels from The Al Thani Collection also presents the major developments in Indian jewellery traditions, from the peak of 17th century Mughal imperial patronage through years of political chaos and colonisation from the 18th century onwards, to the age of the Durbar, great ceremonies that provided Indian sovereigns with a new setting in which to show off their jewels during the time of the British Raj."--

Contents

A jewelled quest / Amin Jaffer -- Jewels and royalty: the road of splendour between India and Europe / Gian Carlo Calza -- The Mughal treasury: dynastic gems and jewels -- Emeralds -- Objects of jade and rock crystal -- Mughal jades -- Objects in gold and enamel -- Regalia and jewelled ornaments -- Cartier and great European jewellers -- Contemporary creations.