09/23/2023
🔸A Mughal (16th-17th Century CE); Jade Wine Cup with Azhdaha; from Northern (Mughal) India.
Azhdaha Dragon, a much important and legendry Persian Mythical Creature, often depicted in various Shahanama Manuscripts.
Azhdaha insignia was acquired by Timur during his conquest of Persia & adopted as a royal Timurid insignia, an imperial symbol of power. Insignia was inherited by Timurs descendents as a symbol of authority, power, and legitimacy across subcontinent and beyond.
Padshanama of Shah Jahan (1592-1666 CE), has several representations of Azhdaha on Mughal flags, banners, & quilt staffs. Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb (1608-1707 CE) named one of his favorite cannons Azhdaha Paikar (Dragon Body) which was used during his Deccan conquests.
📸 Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna