A MUGHAL CARVED RED SANDSTONE PORTAL, India, second half of 18th / early 18th century

Monumental carved portal in red sandstone, made up by different pieces reassembled in a single structure, probably ab origine part of the same architectural frame.

The portal comprises a pediment, four small columns forming a trifora in the centre of the composition and a parapet at the base. The pediment is composed of a frieze with three framed square panels, the outer two with geometric interlace within a mihrab, the central one displaying a medallion with floral and phytomorphic motifs. Below there is an architrave made up of three smaller rectangular panels filled with geometric and floral patterns.

The four slender columns are in typically Indian Mughal style with lotus flowers opened both in the capitals and in the plinths and grooved shafts. Between them three square panels are arranged at the base, each with a different geometric motif alternating with floral compositions.

Catalogue notes:

The entire portal is monumental as a whole, well assembled and homogeneous, albeit rich in different interweaving and complex but delicate decorative motifs. This beautiful portal displays the Mughal fascination with naturalistic floral renderings and the fluidity of the work demonstrates the strength of the Indian stone carving tradition.