The Bird-Shaped Finial on Islamic Royal Parasols: a Ghaznavid or Fatimid Innovation?

This paper aims at investigating when and why the bird-shaped finial made its appearance on Islamic parasols through the analysis of written sources and miniature paintings. Evidence attest to the trans-regional and diachronic use of the parasol as a royal insignia whose meaning and value grew wider to symbolise the seat of government, was it the royal tent, palace or throne.