Tag: architecture

The highly elaborate “mirror work” decorations on its walls and ceilings are the signature feature of the Sheesh Mahal.

Much less “showy”, but at least as beautiful, are the carved marble screens on its northern side.

As well as being lovely to look at – and to look through – these screens are very “practical”.

Popularly known as “the palace of mirrors”, the Sheesh Mahal is the most opulent of Lahore Fort’s “notable monuments”.

It sits directly above the summer palace, in Lahore Fort’s northwestern corner.

The Sheesh Mahal’s glittering splendour is only visible from within what was originally a very “restricted” section of Lahore Fort.

This ornate pavilion/palace was constructed in the 17th century CE, for the exclusive use/pleasure of the imperial family. (plus their invited guests and closest aides)

At 3pm on 12 May 2024 we were “upstairs”, in very bright sunshine, making our way to the Sheesh Mahal.

If the “selfie index” is any guide, this “palace of mirrors” is 21st century tourists’ favourite of the 21 “notable monuments” within Lahore Fort.

We’ll reach it in this series’ next (selfie-less) chapter.

Meanwhile, take a close look at the various structures visible in this chapter’s featured image…

Both of the pictured decorations have been restored, recently.

Nothing more needs to be said.

The featured image and the one immediately below both show “faded glory”.

A 21st century restoration effort has rendered 17th century splendour visible again, but a deal of the original’s vibrancy is almost certainly “gone, forever”.

However, the arch in the final image is an example of the “miracles” that dedicated scholars, architects, artists and artisans can achieve, even when the restoration effort’s beginning is a century or more “too late”.