The Throne of the Great Mogul in Dresden: The Ultimate Artwork of the Baroque

The Throne of the Great Mogul is a masterful deciphering of an extraordinary art object that illuminates major historical themes of the eighteenth century, such as European absolutism, princely politics, the changing meaning of art, and the emergence of a cross-continental lexicon of rulership.

Format: Hardback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

The Throne of the Great Mogul (1701–8) is a remarkable work of European decorative art, offering a profound insight into some of the most significant questions of the eighteenth century. Crafted by the skilled jeweler Johann Melchior Dinglinger in Dresden, this intricate miniature portrays the court of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb during his birthday celebrations. Purchased by the Saxon prince Augustus the Strong for an enormous sum, this magnificent piece is constructed like a theatrical set, adorned with gold, silver, thousands of gemstones, and exquisite enamel work. Comprising 164 individual pieces, it tells a detailed story that unfolds like a captivating narrative.

Dinglinger's dedication to creating this masterpiece is a subject of curiosity. Why did he invest so much time and effort in crafting such a complex and intricate work? Moreover, in the midst of a political and financial crisis, why did Augustus, the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, choose to acquire it? The answers to these questions lie in the rich tapestry of historical themes that Dror Wahrman explores in his book.

By shifting scales from microhistory to global history, Wahrman provides a window into the major historical themes of the period. He delves into the nature of European absolutism, the princely politics of the Holy Roman Empire, the evolving meaning of art in the West, the surprising emergence of a cross-continental lexicon of rulership shared across the Eastern Hemisphere, and the enactment of quirky contemporary theories about the global history of religion in the form of jewels and gold.

The Throne of the Great Mogul serves as a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the eighteenth century. It reflects the grandeur and opulence of the Mughal empire, as well as the intricate craftsmanship and artistic vision of its creators. Through its intricate details and rich symbolism, this masterpiece offers a glimpse into the complex and multifaceted world of the eighteenth century, shedding light on the profound changes that were taking place at the time.

In conclusion, the Throne of the Great Mogul is a remarkable work of European decorative art that offers a profound insight into the historical, political, and cultural themes of the eighteenth century. Through the meticulous exploration of Dror Wahrman, this masterpiece provides a window into the major historical themes of the period, shedding light on the nature of European absolutism, the princely politics of the Holy Roman Empire, the changing meaning of art in the West, the emergence of a cross-continental lexicon of rulership, and the enactment of quirky contemporary theories about the global history of religion.

Weight: 756g
Dimension: 165 x 242 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300251937