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Jama Masjid

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168 views2 pages

Jama Masjid

Uploaded by

maham sanaya
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid, located in Delhi, is not only a significant religious site but also holds
architectural importance as a precursor to the iconic Taj Mahal. Built during the
Mughal era, the mosque exhibits several design elements and features that would
later influence the construction of the Taj Mahal.

Jama Masjid was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who is
famously known for building the Taj Mahal in memory of his beloved wife,
Mumtaz Mahal. The construction of Jama Masjid began in 1650 and took six years
to complete. It is believed to have been designed by the architect Ustad Khalil,
who incorporated various architectural techniques and artistic elements to create a
magnificent structure.

One of the notable architectural features shared by Jama Masjid and the Taj Mahal
is the use of white marble. Both structures showcase the exquisite beauty and
grandeur of this material. The white marble used in Jama Masjid is similar to the
high-quality marble employed in the construction of the Taj Mahal. This choice of
material not only provides a pristine appearance but also allows for intricate
carvings and delicate detailing.

The arches in Jama Masjid adopted a distinctive form with foliated curves. These
arches, usually with nine cusps, add an element of grace and elegance to the
structure. This design choice is echoed in the arches of the Taj Mahal, which also
feature curved edges and intricate detailing. The use of these arches creates a sense
of fluidity and adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of both monuments.

Marble arcades with engrailed arches became a common feature in Jama Masjid,
and this architectural element is seen in the Taj Mahal as well. The arcades in Jama
Masjid provide a sense of rhythm and repetition, creating a visually pleasing effect.
Similarly, the arcades in the Taj Mahal contribute to the symmetrical layout and
contribute to the overall balance and harmony of the monument.

The dome of Jama Masjid exhibits a bulbous form with a stifled neck. This
distinctive dome shape can also be observed in the Taj Mahal. While the dome of
the Taj Mahal is more pronounced and elongated, it still shares the bulbous form
seen in Jama Masjid. The domes of both structures serve as focal points,
symbolizing grandeur and spirituality.

Inlaid patterns in colored stones became the dominant decorative form in Jama
Masjid. These intricate patterns, created by embedding semi-precious stones such
as lapis lazuli, onyx, jasper, topaz, and cornelian into the marble, adorn the
mosque's interiors and exteriors. This technique of inlay decoration, known as
pietra dura, adds a touch of opulence and sophistication to the structure. The Taj
Mahal also features elaborate inlay work, with delicate floral motifs and
calligraphy crafted using semi-precious stones. The skilled craftsmanship and
attention to detail evident in Jama Masjid's inlaid patterns paved the way for the
intricate stone inlay work seen in the Taj Mahal.

Furthermore, Jama Masjid introduced a new form of inlay decoration called pietra
dura, which involved the use of semi-precious stones to create graceful foliations.
This innovative technique allowed for greater precision and intricacy in design,
enabling artists to craft mesmerizing patterns and motifs. The adoption of pietra
dura in Jama Masjid marked a significant artistic development during the Mughal
era. This technique was further refined and perfected in the construction of the Taj
Mahal, where it reached its pinnacle.

While Jama Masjid and the Taj Mahal have distinct purposes and functions, they
both share a remarkable fusion of architectural elements and design aesthetics. The
influence of Jama Masjid on the construction of the Taj Mahal is evident

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