MARVELOUS JALIS: discovering GUJARATI LATTICE STONEWORK

Lattice stonework from the Gujarat Sultanate, which flourished from the 14th to the 16th centuries in western India, is a remarkable architectural style characterized by incredibly intricate stone carving and the creation of delicate screens.
Known as "jali" work, it features meticulously carved geometric patterns, floral motifs, and calligraphy. These lattice screens, made from local sandstone, allowed for the passage of light and air while providing privacy and decorative beauty to structures such as palaces, mosques, and tombs. The lattice stonework of the Gujarat Sultanate reflects the region's rich cultural heritage and showcases the skilled craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of the era. After the Mughals conquered Gujarat, many stoneworkers were enlisted in Mughal “Gran Projets” such as Emperor Akbar’s Fatehpur Sikri (built in part to mark Gujarat’s conquest) as well as Emperor Shah Jahan’s Taj Mahal (his love story with Mumtaz started in Gujarat).

4 PLACES TO SEE JALI:

1. Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Ahmedabad: Sidi Saiyyed Mosque in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is renowned for its intricate jali work. The highlight of this mosque is the famous Sidi Saiyyed Jali, a stone lattice screen depicting an intricate tree motif. The delicate interlacing patterns and fine craftsmanship of the jali screen have earned it the reputation of being one of the finest examples of medieval Islamic art in India. Visiting Sidi Saiyyed Mosque allows you to appreciate the mesmerizing beauty of jali screens and witness the artistic brilliance of Gujarat's craftsmen.

2. Jami Mosque, Champaner: Jami Mosque in Champaner, Gujarat, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases splendid jali work. The mosque features intricately carved stone screens with geometric patterns and intricate motifs. The jali screens at Jami Mosque create a play of light and shadow, adding a captivating aura to the architectural ensemble. Exploring this historical site allows you to immerse yourself in the architectural grandeur of Gujarat and admire the impressive jali craftsmanship.

3. Sarkhej Roza, Ahmedabad: Sarkhej Roza, located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is an architectural complex known for its splendid jali work. The intricate stone screens at Sarkhej Roza exhibit a variety of designs, ranging from geometric patterns to delicate floral motifs. These jali screens adorn the tombs and other structures within the complex, creating a visually stunning and spiritually uplifting environment. Sarkhej Roza offers a serene and picturesque setting to appreciate the magnificence of jali screens and experience the architectural heritage of Gujarat.

4. Fatehpur Sikri: Fatehpur Sikri is an excellent place to witness the exquisite artistry of jali screens. Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Mughal architecture, including the intricate jali work completed by Gujarati artisans found throughout the complex.

Here are 5 interesting facts about Gujarati lattice stone work from the Sultanate period:

1. Optical Illusions: Some lattice stone work designs from the Sultanate period incorporated optical illusions. By skillfully carving and arranging the geometric patterns, craftsmen created the illusion of movement or three-dimensional effects, captivating the viewer's imagination.

2. Symbolic Meanings: The lattice patterns in Gujarati stone work often held symbolic meanings. For example, intricate floral motifs were used to symbolize fertility, prosperity, and abundance, while geometric patterns represented order, harmony, and the cosmic balance.

3. Vibrating Stones: In certain structures, the stone lattice work was designed in a way that produced a vibrating or resonating effect when touched or struck lightly. This phenomenon added an element of surprise and interactivity, engaging the senses of those who encountered the artwork.

4. Social Significance: Lattice stone work played a social role during the Sultanate period. The designs and patterns were used to differentiate social and gender spaces within the architecture. For instance, specific lattice designs indicated spaces exclusively for women or private areas for nobility.

5. Spiritual Symbolism: The lattice stone work of the Sultanate period often had spiritual symbolism. The intricately carved patterns and screens were believed to serve as a bridge between the earthly realm and the divine. They allowed light to filter through in a way that created an ethereal and transcendent atmosphere within sacred spaces.