This artwork portrays an imagined moment from the economic world shaped by Sultan Alauddin Khilji, set within a regulated marketplace that reflects the administrative discipline of his reign. The scene is not intended as a literal reconstruction but rather an evocation of the controlled, orderly environment that resulted from his famous price and market reforms. Merchants, officials and citizens appear within a structured setting, reminding the viewer that economic stability in the Sultanate was treated as a matter of statecraft, not left to chance.
Alauddin Khilji, who ruled from 1296 to 1316 as Sultan of Delhi, introduced one of the most ambitious systems of price regulation in medieval Eurasia. Confronted with military pressures, a growing population and the need for stable supplies, he enacted reforms that fixed the prices of grain, textiles, livestock and essential goods across the capital. Market inspectors were appointed to prevent hoarding, enforce weight standards and monitor behaviour. Grain storage facilities were expanded, and the transportation of goods into Delhi was tightly supervised. Wages were also regulated to maintain balance between workers and merchants. Chroniclers such as Ziauddin Barani provide detailed accounts of these measures, noting that prices remained remarkably stable and that famine was averted during difficult years.
These reforms did more than manage the economy. They reshaped the relationship between the state and the public, demonstrating that governance included responsibility for fairness and welfare. Other dynasties would later draw inspiration from Alauddin’s policies, and his name became associated with firm control, administrative discipline and the capacity of a ruler to intervene in markets to protect citizens. His approach reflected a broader Islamic tradition of ensuring just dealings in bazaars, promoting ethical behaviour among traders and preventing exploitation.
Displayed in a modern home or workspace, this artwork becomes a reflection on the connection between leadership and the daily lives of ordinary people. It speaks to the idea that economic justice, stability and accountability have always been central concerns of good governance. It also highlights a moment in South Asian history when the market became a place not only of commerce but of social order and public responsibility.
Every artwork in the Riwayah collection is available in four premium display formats, crafted to suit every home and interior style. Our canvas prints offer a rich, textured finish that brings depth and character to each piece, stretched on FSC-certified wooden bars for a refined gallery feel. For a minimalist and versatile look, our magnetic hangers use durable pine wood to hold your print securely without marking it, making it easy to change artwork whenever you like. Those seeking a classic, museum-style presentation can choose our premium wooden frames, crafted from responsibly sourced oak or ash with visible natural grain and protected with shatterproof plexiglass. And for a sleek, contemporary finish, our aluminium frames pair clean black metal with heavyweight matte paper for a polished, modern aesthetic. All prints use FSC-certified paper and high-quality inks, arrive ready to hang or assemble, and are produced on demand in the UK to reduce waste and ensure the highest standard of craftsmanship.
