The Deformation and Conservation ofPietraduraon “Naulakha Pavilion” and “Shīshmaḥal” in The Fort of Lahore

Abstract

The Inlay art is a remarkable feature of Mughal architecture in subcontinent. The dynamic expression in the great age of Mughal Empire is in inlay art as well as Pietradura (Italian ‘hard stone’). The pietradure art was in progressive period during sixteenth and seventeenth century, which practiced under Akber (r.1556–1605), Jahāngīr (r.1605–1627), and ShāhJahān (r.1628–1658) and can be previewed in the great Monuments of Mughal Empire. This research paper will presents probable aspects related to the designs, time effect, anticipated character of different stones and their conservation of stone work as pietradura art in Naulakha pavilion and ShīshMaḥal. Pietradura is marble inlay work with designs in precious and semi-precious stones. This paper is an attempt to show the craftsmanship of Mughals, their esthetics and love to art. Their choices of colors and stones are marvelous and remarkably expensive as their stones work. The continuous refinement of pietradura work can be seen in the architecture of Shah Jahānreign as the great TājMaḥal, Tomb of Jahāngīr, ShīshMaḥal, Motī Masjid and many more but the most refine and indegiousmonument in the craft of Pietradura is Naulakha Pavilion Lahore Pakistan.