Jali, an exquisite Indo-Islamic & Mughal architectural feature, is a finely crafted lattice stone screen with intricate perforated patterns
Meaning gauze or net in Urdu, Jali combines outward vision with privacy, reflecting the beauty of modesty in Islamic traditions
A thread…
Meaning gauze or net in Urdu, Jali combines outward vision with privacy, reflecting the beauty of modesty in Islamic traditions
A thread…
1/ A jali, is an open frame structure of interlaced patterns created by generations of skilled workers & artisans, with materials like stone, wood and metal strips or any other building material
Jali at Amber Fort Palace
Jali at Amber Fort Palace
2/ The Jali lets us see out but not be seen - this was especially useful for the Islamic values of modesty & privacy
3/ Jali was an interesting way in which Muslim artists and artisans could offer ornamentation in architecture and design through geometric motifs, with symmetrical shapes and lines, floral designs with plant-based swirls of leaf shapes, vines & flower heads
4/ Tomb of Salim Chishti (1478–1572) Within is a covered passageway for circumambulation, with carved jalis, stone pierced screens all around with intricate geometric design and an entrance to the south.
5/ Jali is not only beautiful but also helps to create ventilating breezes - so very practical in the heat too
6/ The Taj Mahal, exhibits jali at its finest where it is often added with pietra dura (parchin-kari) inlay to its surrounds, using marble and semi-precious stones
7/ During the reign of Akbar, the jali was usually of a simpler hexagonal and octagonal pattern.
8/ Meanwhile, under the reign of his grandson Shah Jahan, more plant and floral motifs were used.
9/ A beautiful aspect of the jali is how light flows through the perforations and lands upon the walls and floors in geometrical shapes & shadows
10/ The play between light and shadow emphasises the geometrical symmetry and creates an illusion of infinity
11/ During the day, the sun passing through the jali creates a beautiful silhouette
12/ The interplay of light is a reminder of the light of the Divine
13/ Jalis are an example of how architectural craft traditions can be both beautiful and practical
14/ The interplay of light at different times of day from dawn to dusk through the jali creates an ambience
15/ The intricate craftsmanship of the jali is so delicate, beautiful and intricate
16/ Contemporary jali design is popular in Islamic architecture today
17/ Jali in a modern context
18/ The beauty of jali continues to inspire the work of contemporary artists today…
Want to discover incredible craft traditions across the Muslim World?
Join us as we bring together a panel of talented artisans and makers who specialise in traditional craft practices, redefining them in a contemporary context. Prepare to be captivated by the intricate…
Join us as we bring together a panel of talented artisans and makers who specialise in traditional craft practices, redefining them in a contemporary context. Prepare to be captivated by the intricate…
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