The 18th in the series, this fine volume continues the high standard of earlier catalogs, presenting detailed scholarship and outstanding images of the Khalili collection. Published in oversized format (10.5x14.25"), the volume contains color plates of the works described, with many details, as well as images of manuscript paintings that depict the jewellery as it was worn. Each catalog entry includes an essay as well as information on media, size, date, origin, and publication history. Essays introduce each section, written by Islamic art historians Carvalho, Henrietta Sharp Cockrell, and Stephen Vernoit. The preface notes that early research for the volume was carried out by Robert Skelton. The essays suggest years of research, providing historical background to the works of art, and include such topics as the history of luxury objects and personal ornaments in early Mughal India, gems and their settings, late Mughal rule and the rise of the East India Company, and direct British rule in India, among many others. Shorter essays are also included, on particular types of objects such as thumb rings, and water pipes. A glossary is provided. The book is presented in a heavy slipcase. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
Unfortunately, despite literary and pictorial evidence that the Mughals possessed and wore large numbers of priceless jewels, very little has survived today. Despite a few recent exhibitions and publications, the subject is still very largely unexplored and the publication of the substantial holdings in the Nasser D. Khalili Collection is therefore an event of some significance. Prominent among these is a spinel ruby engraved with the names and titles of the Emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan; as well as two carved emeralds of notable size and colour, also from the period of Shah Jahan or perhaps the early years of his son’s reign. These pieces are presented alongside a large number of 18th and 19thcentury enamelled and jewelled objects, and a wide range of items of personal jewellery that includes South Indian gold pieces of exotic form and excellent workmanship as well as turban ornaments and other pieces of Mughal design. The detailed catalogue entries are accompanied by several essays exploring various aspects of Mughal precious objects and the materials they used.
