The Mamluks / The Sultan and his Court

‘The Sultan’s authority was expressed in ceremonials and magnificent courtly surroundings.’

The Mamluk sultan also acted as commander-in-chief of his armies and was a major player in the realm of international diplomacy. The sultan’s authority and glory was expressed in elaborate ceremonials, magnificent courtly surroundings and privileged pastimes, such as falconry and hunting.

NameDynastyDetailsJustification
BasinAbout hegira 692–743 / AD 1293–1341MamlukThe British Museum
London, England, United Kingdom
The splendour of the Mamluk sultan was evident in the luxurious objects that surrounded him at court, such as this richly decorated basin for washing.
Perfume sprinklerHegira 698–708 / AD 1299–1309 or AH 709–741 / AD 1309–40MamlukMuseum of Islamic Art
Cairo, Egypt
Luxurious sprinklers like this served the sultan's personal hygiene.
KettledrumHegira first half of 8th century / AD first half of 14th centuryMamlukRoyal Armoury
Stockholm, Sweden
Mamluk sultans enjoyed falconry for leisure and to display their superior hunting skills.
Bottle with polo-playing ridersAround hegira 700 / AD 1300MamlukMuseum of Islamic Art at the Pergamon Museum
Berlin, Germany
Polo (jawkan) was a popular pastime among Mamluk sultans, combining military exercise and sport.