The Mystery of the Lost Peacock Throne: A Symbol of Mughal Magnificence
- Pratha
- 2 days ago
- 6 min read
In the annals of history, few objects embody the grandeur and opulence of a bygone era quite like the Peacock Throne. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan of the Mughal Empire in the 17th century, this magnificent throne was not merely a piece of furniture but a symbol of imperial power, wealth, and artistic prowess. Despite its splendor, the Peacock Throne's reign was relatively short-lived. Following the decline of the Mughal Empire in the 18th century, the throne fell into obscurity, its whereabouts shrouded in mystery. The varied historical accounts also differ in many details making it difficult to assess the actual appearance and the value of the throne. Nonetheless, there are no doubts about the existence and the grandeur of the Peacock Throne. Let's take a look at the popular narrative of this legendary throne.
The Birth of the Peacock Throne:
The genesis of the Peacock Throne can be traced back to the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan, who ascended to the Mughal throne in 1628. Seeking to surpass the grandeur of his predecessors, Shah Jahan envisioned a throne that would befit his exalted status as the ruler of one of the wealthiest and most powerful empires in the world. Inspired by the legendary throne of Solomon and the mythical Simurgh bird of Persian folklore, Shah Jahan embarked on a quest to create a masterpiece that would leave a lasting impression on history.
To bring his vision to life, Shah Jahan enlisted the finest artisans, jewelers, and craftsmen of the Mughal Empire. The result was a breathtaking fusion of artistic styles, incorporating elements of Persian, Indian, and European design. Interestingly, the throne was not originally called the "Peacock Throne." It was first known as the "Jeweled Throne" or "Ornamented Throne" (Takht-Murassa).
The Inauguration Ceremony
The Peacock Throne was unveiled in a grand ceremony on March 22, 1635, a date carefully chosen by court astrologers for its auspiciousness. This day held special significance as it coincided with both Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, and Nowruz, the Persian New Year. The event was marked by elaborate celebrations, reinforcing the throne’s status as a symbol of divine rule and imperial supremacy.
The Design of Peacock Throne
The Peacock Throne was an architectural marvel, designed like a grandiose canopied structure, elevated on golden legs. An arched frame, decorated with celestial motifs, added to its divine aura, reinforcing the idea that the Mughal emperor ruled by divine right. The throne's structure was crafted from pure gold, and adorned with intricate carvings, filigree work, and enamel detailing. But it was the lavish embellishments that truly set the Peacock Throne apart.
The Peacock Throne was a veritable treasure trove of precious gemstones, including diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, pearls, and most notably the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond. The name "Peacock Throne" came from the two sculpted peacocks encrusted with gemstones that stood on top of it, their tails fanned out in an elaborate display of luxury. Each feather was meticulously crafted from jewels, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that dazzled all who beheld it. Surrounding the peacock were lifelike representations of other animals, including lions, tigers, and eagles, all adorned with gleaming jewels. The entire structure rested upon a lavishly embroidered silk carpet, further enhancing its royal grandeur. This unparalleled throne was not just a seat of power but a testament to the Mughal Empire’s artistic and cultural excellence.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Peacock Throne held profound symbolic significance in Mughal culture. As the seat of imperial power, it represented the divine authority of the emperor and his right to rule over the vast expanse of the empire. The peacock, with its association with beauty, immortality, and the heavens, symbolized the emperor's divine mandate and his connection to the celestial realm. Moreover, the throne served as a potent symbol of the Mughal Empire's wealth, prosperity, and cultural sophistication, showcasing the empire's ability to command the world's finest treasures.
The Plunder of the Peacock Throne:
The Mughal Empire’s golden era did not last forever. In 1739, Nadir Shah, the Persian ruler, invaded India and looted Delhi. Among the many treasures he seized, the Peacock Throne was the most coveted. Its journey from India to Persia marked the beginning of its mysterious fate.
After Nadir Shah’s assassination in 1747, his empire fractured, and the throne reportedly fell into the hands of various warlords. Some accounts suggest that it was dismantled, its precious stones scattered across the world. Others claim that a replica was made, while the original disappeared into the shadows of history.
Historical Descriptions of the Peacock Throne
Throughout history, several historians and travelers have described the magnificence of the Peacock Throne:
Jean-Baptiste Tavernier (17th-century French traveler):Â
Tavernier, who visited India during Shah Jahan's reign, provided one of the most detailed descriptions of the Peacock Throne. He described it as an opulent masterpiece adorned with gold, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and pearls. The structure was elevated, supported by massive golden feet, and decorated with intricate gemstone patterns, including large balass rubies and table-cut emeralds arranged in cross-like formations. The canopy was covered in pearls and diamonds, with a grand peacock figure at its pinnacle, crafted from sapphires and other precious stones. The throne was further embellished with weapons, cushions, and ceremonial umbrellas, all encrusted with jewels. Tavernier estimated its cost at 107,000 lakhs of rupees (roughly 53.5 trillion rupees today), a staggering sum that reflected its unmatched splendor.
Abdul Hamid Lahori (Mughal court historian):Â
Lahori documented the throne’s creation in detail. He noted that Shah Jahan envisioned the throne as a reflection of his imperial majesty, utilizing the most exquisite gems from the royal treasury. Additional rubies, diamonds, pearls, and emeralds worth 200 lakhs of rupees were acquired for its construction. The throne measured three gaz in length, two and a half in breadth, and five in height. The canopy's underside was encrusted with rubies and other gemstones, supported by twelve emerald-studded columns, with sculpted peacocks and jewel-studded trees adorning the top. The project took seven years to complete and cost an astounding 100 lakhs of rupees. The throne also bore inscriptions of past rulers, including Timur and Shah Abbas of Persia, linking it to a legacy of great conquerors.
Inayat Khan (Mughal historian):
Inayat Khan provided additional details about the throne’s grandeur. He noted that its construction required gems and precious stones worth 86 lakhs of rupees, along with a diamond valued at 14 lakhs, bringing the total to a crore of rupees. He also highlighted the presence of a priceless ruby that had once belonged to Shah Abbas Safavi of Persia.
Francois Bernier (French physician and traveler):Â
Bernier, who visited the Mughal court in the late 17th century, described the emperor seated upon the throne in lavish attire, adorned with pearls and an extraordinary topaz. He noted that the throne was supported by six massive gold feet, encrusted with rubies, emeralds, and diamonds. While unable to verify the exact number of jewels, he estimated the throne's value at four crores of rupees. Bernier also observed the grand court ceremonies surrounding the throne, including the assembly of Omrahs in splendid apparel and the extensive use of gold brocade, silk canopies, and luxurious carpets in the hall.
The Theories Surrounding the Lost Throne
Many historians attempt to explain the fate of the Peacock Throne. Some believe that after Nadir Shah took the throne to Persia, it was dismantled, and its jewels were distributed among his successors. Another theory suggests that after Nadir Shah’s assassination in 1747, the throne was destroyed during the ensuing chaos. Some speculate that elements of the Peacock Throne may have been incorporated into later Persian thrones, particularly those used by the Qajar dynasty. A more speculative theory suggests that parts of the throne remain hidden somewhere, waiting to be rediscovered.
The Peacock Throne may have vanished from the pages of history, but its legacy endures as a symbol of Mughal magnificence and artistic achievement. Through its unparalleled craftsmanship, lavish adornments, and profound symbolism, the Peacock Throne captured the imagination of generations and left an indelible mark on the annals of history. Though its physical form may be lost to time, the spirit of the Peacock Throne lives on as a testament to the enduring allure of one of the world's greatest empires.
AUTHOR
Akshita Rana
Pratha Editor