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The ruling clans of the Mughal Empire in Southern Asia and the Ottoman Empire in Western Asia both came from Central Asia. This is reflected in the resemblances found in the forms and decorative themes of the jade arts produced in their realms. However, they also developed unique styles that can be compared and contrasted.
If double handles are carved in the shape of a flower, those of Mughal jades are often rendered as hanging flower buds, whereas Ottoman handles spiral in a "S"-shape facing outward. Furthermore, Mughal artisans were skilled in using layers of low-relief carving to present lively flowers and leaves. In contrast, Ottoman jade workers created either round or oval indentations to depict relatively more stylized petals and leaves. In summary, both Mughal and Ottoman jades use floral themes, but the former are depicted as elegantly naturalistic, whereas Ottoman jades are described as linear and defined.
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Mughal Empire
Flower-shaped bowl with two bud-shaped handles (rubbings) |
Ottoman Empire
Bowl with two "S"-shaped handles (rubbings) |
| Mughal Empire Flower-shaped bowl with two bud-shaped handles |
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| Ottoman Empire Bowl with two "S"-shaped handles |
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Mughal Empire
Tea caddy (rubbing) |
Ottoman Empire
Lidded urn with floral carving (rubbings) |
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| Mughal Empire
Tea caddy |
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Ottoman Empire
Lidded urn with floral carving |
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