Abstract
Mughal kingship is discussed as temporal and spiritual power derived from genealogical and political connections with Sufi groups, who migrated to India and popularized Persian culture and literature, including Khamsa poetry. Figural silks from Safavid Iran are analyzed as the inspiration for those made in the royal workshops of the Mughals, who fashion themselves after Iranian kings. Sufi naqshbandan (‘textile designers’) travelled to India seeking patronage and spiritual freedom and, becoming absorbed into the Mughal atelier, transferred their silk design and weaving skills to indigenous craftsmen. Emperors Akbar (r. 1556-1605) and Jahangir (r. 1605-1627) established cosmopolitan courts that emphasized their ties with Sufi leaders, while exploring other faiths. The use of figural silks at the Mughal court brings patronage of the Khamsa silks into consideration.
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