The Jali Walls

on the inside looking out

“Jali” means net or lattice work in Hindustani (a Persian-Arabic script). In its architectural form, jali describes a perforated stone screen, usually with an ornamental pattern. Containing minute carved, delicate geometrical and floral designs, these perforated screens were an integral component of Mughal architecture. Constructed primarily using marble or sandstone, their form includes windows, railings, dividers and outer walls, which provided ventilation and screening from light, imbuing their surroundings with a calm, cool and airy environment. During the day, as sunlight streams through the jalis, the patterns form magical shadows and reflections that grace the adjacent floors and walls, entrancing and mystifying all who see them. Our journal covers portray jali work from the 14th and 15th centuries.

Each book has a memento accordion pouch in back to keep all of those loose bits and pieces in one easy-to-access place. Round corners mean they slip easily into pocket or purse. There’s a ribbon page marker as well as an elastic end-leaf enclosure.

5¼″ × 8¼″ — 224 pages — Smythe sewn
Memento pouch — Ribbon page marker
Elastic end-leaf enclosure