Page:History of India Vol 4.djvu/177

Rh of the splendid and elaborate palaces which are among the most durable memorials of the period. The scene in the Hall of Audience on any great occasion was almost impressive enough to justify the inscription on the gateway: "If there be a Heaven upon earth, it is here, it is here." The emperor's approach was heralded by the shrill piping of the haut-boys and clashing of cymbals from the band-gallery over the great gate, and Bernier thus describes the scene: –

"The king appeared, in the most magnificent attire, seated upon his throne at the end of the great hall. His vest was of white and delicately flowered satin, with a silk and gold embroidery of the finest texture. The turban of gold cloth had an aigrette whose base was composed of diamonds of an extraordinary size and value, besides an Oriental topaz which may be pronounced unparalleled, exhibiting a lustre like the sun. A necklace of immense pearls suspended from his neck reached to his stomach. The throne was supported by six massy feet, said to be of solid gold, sprinkled over with rubies, emeralds, and diamonds. It was constructed by Shah Jahan for the purpose of displaying the immense quantity of precious stones accumulated successively in the treasury from the spoils of ancient rajas and Patans, and the annual presents to the monarch which every Omrah is bound to make on certain festivals. At the foot of the throne were assembled all the Omrahs, in splendid apparel, upon a platform surrounded by a silver railing and covered by