Jali

Historical period(s)
Mughal dynasty, 17th century
School
Mughal School
Medium
Marble
Dimensions
H x W x D: 42.4 x 55.3 x 3.5 cm (16 11/16 x 21 3/4 x 1 3/8 in)
Geography
India
Credit Line
Purchase — Smithsonian Unrestricted Trust Funds
Collection
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
Accession Number
S1990.21
On View Location
Currently not on view
Classification(s)
Architectural Element, Stone
Type

Architectural element

Keywords
India, Mughal dynasty (1526 - 1858)
Provenance
Provenance research underway.
Label

Pierced-stone window screens called jalis are integral componets of Mughal architecture. Both functional and ornamental, they maintain privacy, protect against the sun, and allow for the circulation of air. Their highly intricate designs, including both floral and geometric motifs, become even more apparent by the ever-changing shadows they cast as light passes through them. The dense and tightly arranged floral motifs of this jali are characteristic of the finest architectural decoration of Shah-Jahan's reign. Similar white marble screens also adorn the Taj Mahal. This pierced stone screen probably formed part of a railing.

Collection Area(s)
South Asian and Himalayan Art
Web Resources
Google Cultural Institute
SI Usage Statement

Usage Conditions Apply

There are restrictions for re-using this image. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page.

The information presented on this website may be revised and updated at any time as ongoing research progresses or as otherwise warranted. Pending any such revisions and updates, information on this site may be incomplete or inaccurate or may contain typographical errors. Neither the Smithsonian nor its regents, officers, employees, or agents make any representations about the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or timeliness of the information on the site. Use this site and the information provided on it subject to your own judgment. The Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery welcome information that would augment or clarify the ownership history of objects in their collections.

citation | Save this image How to download an image | Request Permission | Terms of Use