Persian Influence
The Persian blue background and wide gold border are clear evidence of
Persian influence. However the gold border is not in the graceful Persian
"arabesque," but in a more formal Deccani style with rows of
stiff flowers.
Golconda was ruled by the Qutb Shahs. From its foundation the legendary
fort at Golconda was trading with Persia both via Goan ports and by
overland camel trains. The Qutb Shahs traded iron, cotton and the much
sought after kalamkari hand-painted cloth. When diamonds were
discovered at the Golconda mines in the 17th century these were also
traded and the court became very wealthy. This is reflected in the
extensive use of gold for painting.
