Carved Marble Jali (Screen) Window with Floral Motifs
Date1935-1938
MediumMarble
DimensionsOverall: 57 x 30 in. (144.8 x 76.2cm)
ClassificationsStonework
Credit LineCourtesy of the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art
Object number41.51.2
DescriptionThis jali, or lattice screen, is one of four window jalis located in the bathroom of the Mughal Gallery. These perforated marble screens filter sunlight into the private space. Duke commissioned the Delhi-based firm C.G. and F.B. Blomfield to incorporate the Mughal-inspired marble work into the suite. The work was carried out by contemporary craftsmen of the Agra-based firm, India Marble Works. Although she was only in her early twenties when she initiated the commission, Doris Duke took agency in the design. For example, the jali screens she commissioned were originally a purely geometric design. She initially objected to the architect’s plans to incorporate floral elements, concerned that this addition would make them too ornate. The architect explained that the designs originated on the dado panels in the main entrance of the Taj Mahal, and that each window would be a different design. Duke must have been persuaded, as the floral jali panels were eventually installed.
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