Jali Screen
Imperial Mughal, Agra Region
Shah Jahan Period, ca. 1630-1650
Red sandstone
Dimensions: 45 ¼ x 27 ½ inches (115 x 69.8 cm)

Jali screens from the period of Shah Jahan (r.1627-1658) blended the austere power of the earlier Akbari (r.1556-1605) and Jahangiri style (r.1605-1627) with a heightened refinement and delicacy.

Floral designs and intricate geometric patterns typify the jalis from this period. This rectangular jali is carved with two lotus medallions at the upper spandrels. The pierced screen is composed of a complex interlocking latticework of geometric design. A cusped arch motif separates the two fields. At the center of the screen is a small window with a simple double-bordered frame with spandrels that echo the larger version at the top of the jali. This perfect blend of restraint and opulence, as seen in this superb jali, characterizes the architectural style of the Shah Jahan Period.