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Expert Voices

William Dalrymple on the Mughal Emerald and Diamond Spectacles

London | 27 October 2021

William Dalrymple on the Mughal Emerald and Diamond Spectacles

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Two stunning pairs of diamond and emerald spectacles are offered in Sotheby’s upcoming Arts of the Islamic World and India auction (27 October | London). In this latest Expert Voices, writer and historian William Dalrymple describes how they were commissioned by one of the Emperors from the great Mughal period. Discover how the lenses were cleaved from the finest diamonds and emeralds of the era, and find out how they were designed not only as practical objects but to signify one of the greatest periods of gemstone connoisseurship. Click here to watch more Sotheby’s videos.

Past Auction
Arts of the Islamic World & India including Fine Rugs and Carpets
27 October 2021 | 1:00 PM BST | London

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