The Imperial Treasury of the Indian Mughuls, Vols. I and II
Contents: Vol. I: Transliteration. Abbreviations. Chronology. Introductory: The Imperial Household. Treasuries: I. Cash Treasury: 1. Sources of revenue--Land revenue. II. Jewel Treasury: Introduction: Precious stones in general: Sects: i. Fancy. ii. Fact. 1. Jewellers\' weights. 2. Gems and gem-stones in Mughul History (General). 3. Precious stones and pearls in Mughul History (Special): Sects: i. Diamonds (The Koh-i-Nur dispute, etc. Famous diamonds of the world). ii. Rubies.
Vol. II: iii. Sapphires. iv. Emeralds. v. Topaz. vi. Yaquts (?Hyacinth). vii. Pearls. viii. Rock-crystal. 4. Notices of semi-precious stones and other substances. 5. The actual contents of the Jewel Treasury from the invasion of Babur to that of Nadir Shah. Index.
"Mr. Abdul Aziz\'s monograph on "The Imperial Treasury of the Greater Mughuls" is a work of solid research, sound judgement and great industry. His introductory chapter on the Imperial Household is excellent , and he has discussed the material with discrimination and tact.
Mr. Aziz then discusses the sources of revenue in the time of greater Mughuls and calculates their value, with his customary caution, detachment and precision. The other articles deal with precious stones, and discuss the nature and quality of various kinds of stones, and trace the history of the Koh-i-Nur Diamond. The section on Rubies is excellent while other sections that will appeal to readers are those on Ivory and Ivory Work in India. His account of the thrones, chairs, and seats of the Great Mughuls makes fascinating reading and there is a very fine account of the Peacock Throne also. He has also published articles on the Mansabdari system and the Mughul Army.
The work will be welcomed by all students of this period with enthusiasm."