Lot 157: An Imperial Mughal Firman with Seal and Talismanic...
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An Imperial Mughal Firman with Seal and Talismanic Grid, 18th–19th Century.
A Mughal imperial firman written in elegant Persian script in black and red ink on paper, bearing an official circular seal and talismanic square. The document is executed in refined nastaʿlīq calligraphy, arranged in measured horizontal lines consistent with formal Mughal court documentation.
The upper section contains rubricated headings and annotations in red ink. Beneath appears a square magic grid composed of numerals and script, alongside a densely inscribed circular seal impression containing the ruler’s titulature in compact calligraphic form. A bold ink endorsement is positioned centrally, reinforcing its official character.
The main body of the decree unfolds in fluid Persian script across the lower section, the text carefully spaced and balanced. The paper shows natural ageing, tonal variation, water staining, and irregular hand-cut edges consistent with period Mughal administrative manuscripts.
Firmans of this type were issued to formalise appointments, land grants, tax exemptions, stipends, or administrative privileges under the Mughal Empire. Combining imperial authority with refined calligraphic elegance, this document stands as a tangible survival of Mughal governance.
Approximately 66 x 24cm
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