Shish Mahal

Name of monument: Shish Mahal

Location:Lahore Fort

Period of Construction:1631-32

Material of Construction and Finishes: Bricks, Red Sandstone, Marble, pietra dura, aina kari, fresco paintings

Brief Description:

The Sheesh Mahal “The Palace of Mirrors” is located within the Shah Burj block in northern-western corner of Lahore Fort . It was constructed under the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan  in 1631–32. The ornate white marble pavilion is inlaid with pietra dura and complex mirror-work of the finest quality. The hall was reserved for personal use by the imperial family and close aides.The Shish Mahal comprised of main front hall and rows of smaller rooms flanked on the either side by double storied galleries. The main decorative feature of the main hall and some of the side room is the application of convex glass mosaic (aina kari) with manbat kari or stucco tracery. These mirrors shine like stars with candles are lit in dim light or at night. The spandrels of the arches and the bases of double columns carrying multi cusped arches are decorated with pietra dura work. The openings on the northern sides overlooking the river are filled in with exquisitely fine jalis (perforated screens). The plan is of Shish Mahal is based upon pure geometry where use of grid, architectural axis has been used to create variety of spaces at different angles and to create views of the distant landscape.