Zardozi, meaning ‘gold embroidery’ in Classical Persian, refers to an elaborate form of embroidery with metal embellishments. The practice employs gold and silver thread, along with coiled or flat wire, and may incorporate beads, precious stones and pearls. Zardozi reached India from West and Central Asia in the twelfth century and flourished during the Mughal era (1526–1857), becoming a prominent artform that continues today. It may be used to decorate wedding or formal wear or, as in the case of these oleographs, practised as an act of reverence to embellish religious imagery.