Pieces Of You (Part II)

This fascinating pendant features a cameo portrait of Emperor of Shah Jahan carved in hardstone set in gold and rubies. The custom of presenting a pendant bearing the emperor’s image to favoured courtiers was established by Akbar, one of the Great Mughal ruler.

Another delightful find (apologies as I don't have the picture) is a dark sapphire cup carved from rock crystal, set with gold in Kundan technique and decorated with emeralds, rubies. If you peep closely towards the interior of the glass, you would even discover painted miniature faces greeting you. Interesting, is it?

Additionally, I learnt from a large painting that Akbar was a philanthropist as he had initiated a tradition of weighting the emperor or princes on their birthdays and the number would be measured out in gold, silver and valuable items that would be distributed to the poor and holy people. The offerings even included valuable objects with different aromatic smells such as musk, amber and sandalwood. As part of the exhibit, one could sniffed out these three fragrances on the spot. I am impressed!

Once again, these exhibits revealed that the Mughals were proud warriors, ardent in their desire to rule and highlight their distinguished ancestry through their grand collection of the various jewelled arts, unrivaled of any other royal court. It also reinforced that gift giving is central during the Mughals period.

Overall, the jewelled arts prospered because of the various factors including:

- Skills of artisans and craftsmen
- Plentiful supply of precious stones
- Active patronage of royals, diplomats and merchants to seek favours (even common people were required to bestow gift in court)

So if you don't wish to miss out this life-time opportunity, check it out locally before end of June. Enjoy the exhibition and would love to hear from you on the Treasury of the World!:)