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Illustration of an Indian woman holding a flower
This exhibition is in the past. View our current exhibitions.

The Mughal art of the book

Mughal books were all written by hand (known as ‘manuscripts’). The finest examples were illuminated, illustrated with exquisite paintings and protected by leather bindings and silk covers. Their creation was a collaborative effort which involved calligraphers, artists and craftsman.

The majority of Mughal books were written in Persianwhich is read from right to left. Persian was the social, cultural and intellectual language of the Mughal court.A rich and expressive language, it is celebrated for its long tradition of moralising, romantic and mystical poetry.


The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.