http://collection.shangrilahawaii.org/internal/media/dispatcher/17588/fullCarved Wooden Railing with Jali (Screen) Insets1937Overall: 37 1/2 x 5 1/2 x 329 in. (95.3 x 14 x 835.7cm)Wood64.41The carved, latticework balustrade separates the foyer and central courtyard. Called a mashrabiyya in Arabic, this architectural element is typically used as window screens and balcony railings. The wooden screens are crafted from turned wood joined by polygonal blocks, forming intricate, geometric patterns.
The mashrabiyya were created by Moroccan craftsmen in the 1930s. They were commissioned in 1937 from the firm S.A.L.A.M. René Martin, located in the Moroccan capital of Rabat. In addition to the mashrabiyya, the commission included other architectural features, including stucco, ceramic tile, and wood for the foyer, living room, central courtyard, and the Moroccan Room (the bedroom of Duke’s former husband, Jame Cromwell).
Woodwork95.250000000013.97000000001648155312