Publisher's Synopsis
The treasures of India are among the great mysteries of the West. With them the culture of the Maharajas is connected, whose incomparable splendor is presented in the catalog for the unique exhibition in Munich. At the same time the fascinating historical development of the role of the Maharajas from the early 18th Century to the last days of the Raj is told. The Maharajas of India have captured the imagination of the West with the vision of a world full of beauty and luxury. At the height of their power as masters of far-flung countries with countless subjects, they have emerged since the 18th Century as spiritual masters, generals and politicians, but especially as procurers of treasures of exorbitant standing. With the support of the royal collections in Udaipur and Jodhpur, and in collaboration with the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the exhibition and this catalog present the spectrum of India's Mughal period as has never been previously shown in Europe. It includes all the magnificent diversity of jewelry and precious miniatures, weapons and courtly robes, thrones, and sedans, and the pomp harnesses of the elephants. The pieces included highlight little noticed historical developments in India through the end of the colonial period, but also provide insights into courtly manners and celebrations and the sphere of life of women in the palaces, their mysterious seclusion, their flair and elegance. The "Necklace of Patiala" that Cartier created in 1928 out of 2,930 diamonds is a sensation in its own rite. This catalog is dedicated with due opulence to the richness of the subject and gives the unique exhibition lasting appreciation. German text.
