Further on might be perceived the cotton manufacturers,
whose chartak was full of birds of all shapes and plumage, formed
nevertheless of their curious plant; and, in the centre rose a lofty
minaret, constructed of the same material, with the help of reeds,
although every one imagined it to be built with bricks and mortar. It
was covered with embroidered work, and on the top was placed a stork, so
cunningly devised that the children pelted it with pistachio-nuts. The
saddlers showed their skill in two litters, open at top, each carried on
a dromedary, and in each a beautiful woman, who diverted the spectators
with light balls of gilt leather, throwing them up both with their
hands and feet. Nor were the mat-makers backward in the proof of their
dexterity, since, instead of a common banner, they exhibited a large
standard of reeds worked with two lines of writing in Kufic, proclaiming
the happy names of Alroy and Schirene.
But indeed in every chartak might be seen some wondrous specimens of the
wealth of Bagdad, and of the ingenuity of its unrivalled artisans.
Around this mighty circus, on every side for the space of many miles,
the plain was studded with innumerable pavilions. At measured intervals
were tables furnished with every species of provision, and attended by
appointed servants; flagons of wine and jars of sherbets, mingled
with infinite baskets of delicious fruits and trays of refreshing
confectionery.
Pages:
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234