Among Zoroastrian burial items, there is a camel-shaped zoomorphic OSTADON lying there. It was found…
The grandeur of Islamic art and faith is embodied in this unique artifact – a talismanic shirt from the Manuscript Department's collection.
Created in the 18th century, during the reign of the Great Mughals, this shirt showcases the highest caliber of calligraphy, executed in the *nasakh* script in Arabic. The shirt, with its straight cut, short wide sleeves, and a small opening in the front, is crafted from cotton fabric that has been treated for smoothness. Elegant dark blue edging adorns the neckline, opening, sleeve edges, and hem. Six pairs of ties secure the shirt to the body, providing comfort and ease.
The inscriptions on the shirt are executed in two ways: dense lines resembling fine embroidery are arranged in blocks and arches on the hem, while larger letters frame these blocks against a backdrop of orange dots. The combination of varying letter sizes and colors creates a vibrant and memorable artistic embellishment. A rectangular cartouche adorns the center of the back, two circular medallions adorn the front panels, and scalloped medallions embellish the shoulders. These details are executed in blue and orange hues, with the inscriptions in black ink. The sacred words were considered a potent means of protection against evil. Bold fonts in certain verses highlight the divine characteristics of Allah as the Protector.
For a more comprehensive understanding of this topic, please refer to the book-album "KUSHAN AND BABURID (MUGHAL) ART AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NEW DELHI, INDIA" (Volume LV).
