Tile depicting two columns

Hidden under the glazes is the red earthenware body that is characteristic of tile production in Multan. This tile features a pair of columns moulded onto the surface to give three-dimensional form. Handpainted decoration with the primacy of vibrant turquoise or blue and white colour schemes, referred to as 'kashigari', is also distinctive of Multani tilework, and bears strong influence from Iranian tilework as the area was historically under Mughal rule. The Mughals trace their genealogy to Iran and were also patrons of migrating artisans from Iran particularly from the 12th century onwards. This tile was most likely used as an architectural element to adorn facades.

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