Les Arts Moghols

The history and cultural, social and political wealth of the Mughal Empire (1526-1857) are still largely unknown in France.

Descended from Genghis Khan (circa 1165-1227) and the Turk Tamerlane (1336-1405), the Mughal rulers were originally from Central Asia, from which they were driven out by the Uzbeks in the early 16th century. It was from Kabul that Babur, the founder of this Muslim dynasty, set out victoriously to conquer North India in 1526. He was succeeded by emperors, each of whom in his own way left their mark on the great Mughal epic.

From Agra to Delhi, Fatehpur Sikri and Lahore, this book offers a cultural and artistic journey to the furthest reaches of Asia. The first part traces the many exchanges of Mughal art with the rest of the world and its spread across the sub-continent and beyond. It also describes the making of the works, their creators, their techniques, the places where they operated, and the practices of the Mughal elites as art collectors.

The second part is devoted to court life, showcasing all its magnificence and revealing the splendours of Mughal palatial and funerary architecture. It also features a host of magnificent arts and crafts and book arts.