In 2013, a 17th-century Mughal carpet sold for $7.7 million at Christie's, London, setting a world record for any Islamic Indian work of art. This "Millefleur" carpet, likely commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan, exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship and artistic vision that Mughals brought to Indian carpet-making.
While carpet-making in India predates the Mughals, with Gujarat being a major production centre as early as the 5th century AD, it was under Mughal patronage that the art form truly flourished. Historical records mention Mahmud Begaraha of Gujarat presenting a carpet to Zainul Abideen of Kashmir, and Portuguese traveller Duarte Barbosa noted Indian carpets being exported via Diu to countries around the Arabian Sea.
The Mughal influence on Indian carpet-making began in earnest with Emperor Akbar (r. 1556-1605). According to historian Ebba Koch in her book "Mughal Art and Imperial Ideology" (2001), Akbar established imperial carpet weaving facilities, importing skilled artisans from Persia to train local craftsmen. Centres like Fatehpur Sikri, Lahore, Agra, and Kashmir became hubs of carpet production.
Under Shah Jahan (r. 1627-1658), the industry expanded further. His passion for art and architecture, evident in monuments like the Taj Mahal, extended to carpets. As noted by Stuart Cary Welch in "India: Art and Culture 1300-1900" (1985), Shah Jahan commissioned exquisite carpets for his palaces and monuments, including the Taj Mahal.
Mughal carpets were characterized by intricate designs featuring flora, fauna, and geometric patterns. The inclusion of both domestic and exotic animals in realistic and stylized forms became a hallmark of Mughal carpets. According to Daniel Walker in "Flowers Underfoot: Indian Carpets of the Mughal Era" (1997), Mughal designs were influenced by Persian traditions and European tapestries acquired through trade.
One distinguishing feature of Mughal carpets was the use of secondary guard bands dividing the border from the central field, a design element later adopted by other carpet-weaving cultures. The Mughals' fascination with flora and the concept of a paradise garden inspired many designs, themes that continue to influence modern Indian carpet-making.
The industry flourished in various centres. Fatehpur Sikri and Agra were initial hubs, with production later shifting to Lahore and Kashmir under Shah Jahan. Wool and silk were primary materials, with some exquisite examples made from Pashmina wool featuring up to 500 knots per square inch.
Today, the Mughal carpet-making tradition continues, particularly in places like Agra. Modern artisans still draw inspiration from Mughal designs, creating luxurious handmade rugs that echo the elegance and quality of their historical predecessors.
However, the industry faces challenges. Traditional techniques are at risk of being lost as machine-made carpets dominate the market.
While carpet-making in India has ancient roots, it was under Mughal patronage that it reached its zenith. The Mughals elevated carpet-making from a craft to an art form, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence Indian and global carpet design. Their contribution remains a testament to India's rich cultural heritage and artistic tradition
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