Special Exhibitions
Jeweled Arts of India
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Special Exhibitions |
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Jeweled Arts of India |
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Jeweled Magnificence The jeweled weapons and related materials presented in the exhibition range in date from the 16th to the 18th century and demonstrate the widespread utilization of such items in both Islamic and Hindu contexts in the subcontinent. These objects, as well as jeweled boxes, dishes, and ritual items, provided enjoyment and status for the wealthy classes who could afford such luxurious possessions.Although Mughal texts most often describe jeweled items that were given to or worn by the Mughal emperors and their male children, 17th- to 19th-century paintings of women portray them adorned with many types of jewelry; a number of pieces for female wear are included in the exhibition. No matter what their social rank, Indian women have perennially worn elaborate jewelry of distinguished design. In the Mughal era the array of means at the jeweler's disposal reached its apogee; in such a prosperous period and in a culture with a powerful vision of jewelry that was at once sculptural and full of the painter's sense of color, the efflorescence of the jeweled arts that resulted was, as these pieces show, impressive indeed. Page 13 of 13 | On the next page: Varieties in Stone Settings |
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