Diwan-e Khas, the Dewas Khan, Palace of Delhi

This hand-painted engraving by an unidentified artist shows a view of the Diwan-e Khas with a red, decorated canopy inside the Red Fort, Delhi.

The Diwan-e Khas is a rectangular marble structure that was given the name Shah Mahal by the Mughal emperor Shahjahan (1592–1666) and embellished with gilded gems, inlay work, and floral patterns. The structure’s primary function was to host Mughal court aristocrats and courtiers. However, following the uprising in 1857, the British seized control of the Red Fort complex and set up their army headquarters there.

To know more about the revolt of 1857, click here.