The V&A has always asked why things look as they do, often by elucidating technique and maker's intentions, but also through understanding the function of objects and the history of patronage.

This book, and the exhibition it accompanies, explores an important and under- appreciated aspect of the history of taste: the patronage exercised by Indian rulers from the early eighteenth to the mid-twentieth century. It examines the role of this patron- age within the context of the political, social, and economic history of kingship in India and reveals the ceremonial and practical purposes for which such objects were designed. It also reveals the extent to which the market for some of the finest European goods came to depend on and respond to the demands of Indian princely patrons.

The word ‘maharaja’–literally ‘great king’ – conjures up a vision of splendour and magnificence. This lavishly illustrated book examines the real and perceived worlds of the maharaja, from the early eighteenth century to 1947, when the Indian princes ceded their territories into the modern states of India and Pakistan.

Jackson and Jaffer explore the spectacular material culture of India’s rulers, showcasing rich and varied objects that reflect different aspects of royal life. Indian and Western works from a wide range of media, including paintings, photographs, textiles and dress, jewellery, jewelled objects, metalwork and furniture, are considered within the broader historical context , giving readers an understanding of royal status and identity, court culture and patronage, while attractive feature spreads highlight particular maharajas. Essays by leading international scholars explore Indian concepts of kingship, the public aspects of princely life, architecture of the princely court, palace life and recreation, and the important role of the princes as patrons of traditional arts.

Sponsor's Foreword

Preface

Acknowledgements

Map

Introduction

 Maharaja Jai Singh II of Amber

 Raja Serfoji of Tanjore

Kingship in India

 Maharaja Ranjit Singh of the Punjab

 Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi

The Power of Public Splendour

 Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of Baroda

 Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner

Palace Life

 Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Kapurthala

 Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV of Mysore

Patronage at Court

 Maharana Fateh Singh of Mewar

 Maharaja Ranjitsinhji of Nawanagar

Palaces and the Politics of Style

 Nizam Osman Ali Khan Asaf Jah of Hyderabad

 Maharaja Yeshwant Rao Ho]kar II of Indore

Indian Princes and the West

Notes

Bibliography

Picture Credits

Contributors

Index