The bird-shaped finial on Islamic royal parasols: A Ghaznavid or Fatimid innovation?

Abstract

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.