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It is interesting to note that in the Islamic tradition, flowers are considered a representation of Paradise and symbolize the kingdom of Allah. Hence, the carvings and the inlay work in the entire Taj Mahal complex consist of flower motifs, as the mausoleum was truly intended to be a paradise on earth.
The Taj Mahal basically consists of three kinds of inlay: Stone intarsia is the first and the most basic kind, which is found in the gateway, mosque and resthouse. In this colored marble is inlaid into the sandstone to make geometric patterns.
The next level of inlay is used in the exterior of the mausoleum to create the impressive large scale calligraphic designs and the intricate geometric motifs that adorn the main arches of the Taj.
The third and the most intricate technique was called “parchin kari”. Similar to the Italian technique known as 'pietre dure', it was at that period the most expensive and up to date form of architectural decoration available. To create the “parchin kari” inlays, first patterns were drawn directly on the marble walls using a red dye, popularly called “henna” in India. After that the designs were chiseled out using fine tools. Next precious stones like lapis lazuli, garnets, agate and carnelians were given shape using a moving metal wheel as an abrasive surface. These valuable gems were then inserted and fitted into the chiseled out marble sockets. A lot of attention was given to the colors of the gemstones, so that an effect of shading and depth could be given to the flower motifs. The parchin Kari at the Taj Mahal is one of the finest quality examples of the era.
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