Currents November 2019 Nov 2019 _Currents web | Page 11

Currents
November 2019
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impression. The rows of eleven bell-like canopies in
the center rooflines, “chhatris,” depict elements of
honor originating in Rajasthani structures. The gate
lacks a dome, as domes are used only for mau-
soleums and mosques. The Gate is part of the com-
plex where construction began in 1632, by direction
of Emperor Shah Jahan, in honor of his wife Mumtaz
Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child.
The Gate’s façade utilizes the iwan, an ogile
porch with a vault. These porches serve the same
function as those in churches, providing a transitional
space. The exterior, of clay bricks, covered in red
sandstone, pays homage, in the use of red, to an
ancient warrior class. The building’s inner courtyard,
comprising small rooms separated by columns, once
sheltered poor merchants. The interior features an
arcaded gallery. The vaulted ceiling is decorated with
red geometric patterns.
While the Gate’s intricate decoration of both real-
istic and stylized (imaginary) flowers and plants is
impressive, it is the Qu’ran passages that warrant
continued on page 12 >
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