Jali A Study of Islamic Geometric Patterns, Aesthetics and Its Function

Appendix-1
JALI: A STUDY OF ISLAMIC GEOMETRIC PATTERNS, AESTHETICS

AND ITS FUNCTION
Dissertation Submitted
in the partial fulfilment of the requirements for

submission of Dissertation for
Bachelors of Architecture
By
G. PAVAN KALYAN
Reg. No. 1160100576
Guide
Mr. Kranti Kumar Myneni
Associate Professor
Department of Planning/Architecture
School of Planning and Architecture, Vijayawada
January 2021
Appendix-2
UNDERTAKING
I, Mr. G PAVAN KALYAN, hereby declare that the Dissertation titled “Jali: A study of
Islamic geometric patterns, aesthetics and its function” is a record of original
research work undertaken by me towards partial fulfilment of the requirements for
submission of Dissertation in the Department of Architecture, School of Planning and
Architecture, Vijayawada. The work has not been submitted to any other
organization/ institution.
I hereby confirm the originality of the work and that there is no plagiarism in any part
of the Dissertation.
______________________________
Name: G. Pavan Kalyan
Reg. No. 1160100576
2020-21
Bachelors in Architecture
Department of Architecture
Date: 12-01-2021
Appendix-3
(To be on Printed on SPAV Letterhead)
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the dissertation titled “Jali: A study of Islamic geometric
patterns, aesthetics and its function” has been submitted by G Pavan Kalyan (Reg.
No. 1160100576) at the Department of Architecture, towards partial fulfilment of the
submission for Bachelors of Architecture. This is a bonafide work of the student.
RECOMMENDED
_________________________
Signature of the Supervisor 1
Name and Designation
Department
ACCEPTED
_______________________________
Signature of the Head, Department of Planning/ Architecture
Appendix-4
DISCLAIMER
The content produced in the dissertation report is an original piece of work and takes
due acknowledgement of referred content, wherever applicable. The thoughts
expressed herein remain the responsibility of the undersigned author and have no
bearing on or does not represent those of School of Planning and Architecture,
Vijayawada.
______________________________
Name: G. Pavan Kalyan
Reg. No. 1160100576
2020-21
Bachelors in Architecture
Department of Architecture
Date: 12-01-2021
TABLE OF CONTENT
S. No. Title Page No.

Preliminaries ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS i
PREFACE / ABSTRACT ii
LIST OF TABLES iii
LIST OF FIGURES iv
LIST OF SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATIONS v
Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION 1-4

1.1 Background Study 1
1.2 Need for the study 1
1.3 Introduction 2
1.4 Aim 3
1.5 Objectives 3
1.6 Methodology 3
1.7 Scope and Limitations 4
.............................................................................................................................
Chapter 2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE 5-15
2.1 Geometric Patterns 5

2.1.1 Formation of Islamic Geometric Patterns 5
2.1.2 Evolution of Islamic Geometric Patterns 7
2.1.3 Evolution of Islamic Geometric Patterns in India
by Mughals 7
2.2 Geometric Patterns of Jali 10
2.2.1 Jali 10
2.2.2 Geometric Patterns of Jalis in Mughal Architecture 10
2.2.3 Aesthetics 12
2.2.4 Characteristics of Jali 12
2.2.5 Climatic Aspects 13
2.2.6 Usage of Jalis post-independence 13
...............................................................................................................................
Chapter 3. Case Study 16-24
3.1 Introduction 16
3.2 Geometric Patterns of Carvings 17
3.3 Geometric Patterns of Jalis 17
3.4 Analysis of Jali Formations 19
...............................................................................................................................
Conclusion 24
...............................................................................................................................
References 25-26
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
It is a good fortune for me to have the esteemed guidance of Professor Mr. Kranti
Kumar Myneni, who encouraged me to tackle this project of " Jali: A study of Islamic
geometric patterns, aesthetics and its function " I owe him immensely more than I
can express inwardly for his unfailing encouragement above all sympathy and
benevolence in attitude.
I consider it my good privilege to express my sincere gratitude to him. I would also

like to thank the Dissertation coordinator Mr. Deepak Kumar and other faculty
members for their encouragement, worthwhile suggestions and constructive criticism
throughout project work.
I am grateful to my Seniors, friends and classmates who continuously motivated me

throughout my research.
Finally, I express my infinite gratitude to my parents, for their love, affection, and
giving me passionate encouragement at every stage of my life, without their love,
blessings and sacrifices, I would Probably have never succeeded in carrying through
this and every work.
G PAVAN KALYAN
ABSTRACT
Jali a traditional perforated screen had been widely used in the Indian history offering
thermal comfort, ventilation and daylighting in built environment. This paper studies
the evolution and formation of geometric patterns of Mughal jalis over the period of
time, region, materials and gather some factors to its modern explanations and
variations by modern architects through literature studies and case studies in the
sustainable architecture of India.
In this paper, jalis of Paigah tombs, a heritage structure which has Mughal influence
is studied and analyzed. One of the main outcomes of this study is to help architects
to understand the Islamic geometric patterns and designing better buildings with this
traditional element jali in the context of Hyderabad.
Keywords: jali/lattice screen, Islamic geometric patterns, Mughal architecture,

Aesthetics, Climate.
LIST OF TABLES
1 Significance of Circle 5
2 Islamic Geometric patterns Classification 6
....................................................................................................................................
LIST OF FIGURES
1 Geometrical pattern designed from the division of circle 6

2 Geometric patterns of Humayun Tomb in Delhi and
Red Fort in Agra. 8
3 Geometric patterns of Friday Mosque of Fatehpur-Sikri,
Tomb of Akbar, Humayun Tomb 9
4 Patterns of Jali 10
5 Jali at tomb of Salim Chishti, Fatehpur Sikri 11
6 Friday mosque of Fatehpur-Sikri and Salim-Chishti
(inside the mosque), several 6,8,10 and rare 14 - point
star geometrical patterns. 11
7 The sheltering effect of trees and jali at Fatehpur Sikri 12
8 Screens of Sanjay Puri’s Office building,
Pearl Academy of Fashion 15
9 Paigah Tombs and its carving works. 16
10 Floral geometry motif patterns of stucco carvings 17
11 Different Geometrical Patterns of Jali 18
12 Jali Pattern – 1 19
....................................................................................................................................
Jali: A study of Islamic geometric patterns, aesthetics and its function
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background Study:
Traditional architecture provides simple solutions for hard challenges postured by

the climate and the environment always. These easy solutions have evolved over
thousands of years, varying and adjusting to the requirement of the regular
changes that the lifestyle goes over. In modern times, the easier solution is to use
of HVAC appliances, which results in an independent building that is
uninfluenced and unaware of its context. There is also increase in energy
consumption for air conditioning and lighting also. This brings a requirement to
look back at the missing link of the traditional architecture by deriving some of its
elements after understanding the techniques and save the energy from buildings.
Perforated screens called as “Jali” in India is an element which is found to be

used beyond geographic borders and in current times beyond climatic
restrictions.
Jali formed an identity in the traditional architecture of Hot climates across the
world in different systems and materials catering to different requirements. It
offers indoor thermal comfort without depending on mechanized systems and
also gives privacy due to variance in light levels from outdoor to indoor. It also
saves the energy in buildings. [CITATION Pav15 \l 1033 ]
1.2 Need for Study:
Hot climates provide challenges like sustaining right amount of ventilation,

humidity and light to achieve comfort. So, buildings in hot climates have to avoid
direct solar radiation within the space and also maintain good quantity of light and
offer adequate ventilation. [CITATION Giv98 \l 1033 ]
Buildings consume approximately 40%-50% of total produced primary energy

globally. Increasing use of technology and need of thermal comfort with luxury
has led to an increasing demand for day lighting and ventilation in composite
climate. [CITATION Gau15 \l 1033 ]
1
G Pavan Kalyan, 1160100576, B. Arch 2016-21
The domination of glass has taken away the traditional perforated screens from
the context and became as commemoration. Jali is one of the significant
solutions offered by the history of hot climates to beat the heat and keep the
spaces comfortable. The geometric design of each jali depended on the local
climatic and functional requirements with available resources and materials.
Therefore, wide range of geometrical patterns of jali are found throughout the
world. [CITATION Pav15 \l 1033 ]
There is historical significance in the formation of the geometric patterns of

Islamic architecture. These patterns seem to be complicated but they are
originated from the subdivisions of circles with simple grids. These patterns not
only depict the aesthetics but also are climate responsive. The geometry,
material of jali patterns also differs according to its respective climate.
So, there is a need to understand the evolution and formation of geometrical

patterns and its impact with respective to the climate, function, material, etc.
Hence, it is essential to systematically know its principles progressed in the
ancient times which help to determine the feasibility for its application in
contemporary buildings by creating new patterns.
1.3 Introduction:
Geometry plays a major role in Islamic Architecture which is considered as

sacred art form. The geometrical patterns can be found as ornamental element
on doors, domes, walls, ceilings. These patterns depict the aesthetics as well as
astonishing skills and understanding of geometry. These patterns may be
complex but they are formed with simple grids which are created with the help of
a compass and a ruler, these mathematical complex agendas are examples of
the scientific advances and progresses of Islamic Golden age. [CITATION Emb12 \l
1033 ]
From the ancient times, the noteworthy architectural element is jalis which means
latticed screens or fine net or perforated screens. In the past, these ornate
perforated screens, are not only an aesthetic element in but also played a
prominent role to tackle the environment of building’s ventilation and lighting.
2
Different techniques, designs, materials have been used for these passive
cooling and lighting. This study mainly focuses on the importance of jalis, as
aesthetic elements as well as its functional significance. Understanding the
principles of geometric patterns helps architects to design the jalis by
incorporating those principles in Hot climates.
1.4 Aim:
To learn the principles of Islamic geometric patterns of Jali and incorporate in

contemporary buildings by understanding its formation, functions and
characteristics.
1.5 Objectives:
 To understand and study the general formations of geometrical patterns.

 To study the evolution of Islamic geometrical patterns of Mughal
architecture.
 To study the significance of geometrical patterns on jali design.
 To study the characteristics of jali.
 To study the usage of jali after independence.
 To study and analyze the formation of jali patterns in case of Paigah
Tombs, Hyderabad.
1.6 Methodology:
The study is formed on descriptive methods, for which the aim is to collect
information and principles applied to form a geometric pattern from surviving
Mughal buildings. This paper provides answer to question that when were the
geometric patterns evolved in the Mughal architecture and how these patterns got
evolved over the time with selected surviving buildings. Then the study focuses on
significance of geometric patterns on jali designs of Mughal buildings and talks
about the characteristics, climatic aspects and the usage in the present context.
3
Finally, jalis of Paigah tombs, a heritage structure which has Mughal influence is
studied and analyzed.
1.7 Scope and Limitations:
 Taking into the consideration of different architectural styles, only the

geometrical patterns of Mughal architecture of India are studied.
 Considering the various structures, the geometric patterns of Paigah
tombs is studied which has significant characteristics of jali.
 As there are various geometrical patterns of Jalis, the study is restricted to
5 geometrical patterns of different orientations of the Paigah tombs.
4
CHAPTER 2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE
2.1. Geometric Patterns
2.1.1 Formation of Islamic geometric patterns
In the past, the only tools used to create polygons and required angles are
compass and ruler. All Islamic geometric patterns originate from the harmonious
subdivisions of circles which are based on templates of circle grids. Some
researchers stated that the use of the circle is a way of expressing the unity of
Islam [CITATION Akk05 \l 1033 ]. The patterns are created from circles, squares,
polygons and star patterns. Typically, the complex patterns which have number
of polygons repeated many times are formed by overlapping, repeating and
interlocking.
Table 1: Significance of Circle
Source: Digital Sacred Geometry (2010)
5
Most of the constructive polygons – hexagon, octagon and decagon are the base
for many geometric patterns. Star polygons are fundamental elements, which are
created by connecting the vertices of constructive polygons. [CITATION Bro08 \l
1033 ] This circumstance forms the base for the classification of the patterns, for
example the patterns created from a hexagon, converts into a 6 – point
geometrical pattern called as 6 – point star, in which two adjacent sides are
parallel, represented as 6 – fold rosette leaves. The table-2 shows the derivation
of 6, 8, & 10-fold complex shapes from single polygons.” [CITATION Emb12 \l 1033 ]
Table 2: Islamic Geometric patterns Classification
6
Source: Evolution of Islamic Geometric Patterns (2013)
Source: Pattern, Cognition and Contemplation (2007)
The pattern (15th century) from Yazd in Iran is derived from 6 regular divisions of
the circle. From this a regular grid of triangles is established, on top of which the
design is elaborated. Note how the complex tracery of pattern interweaves with
the basic design which appears in white outline. [CITATION Hen07 \l 1033 ]
2.1.2. Evolution of Islamic geometric patterns
To understand the patterns of jali, first we have to know the evolution of Islamic
geometric patterns. Due to different time periods, kingdoms and regions, the
geometric patterns have evolved over the time. These patterns are decorative
Figure 1: Geometrical patterns designed from the division of circle
element as well as depicts the astonishing skills and understanding of geometry

in Islam. These patterns may be complex but they are formed with simple grids
which are created with ruler and compass, these mathematical complex
frameworks are examples of the scientific advances and inventions of Islamic
Golden age.
During the 8th and 9th century Islam scientific and technological knowledge had
grown in Middle East, Central Asia, Iran on the basis of that the expansion of
geometry in Islamic art and architecture is also observed. Muslims original
7
contribution in the field of sciences became noteworthy during 10 th century which

was also detected in the complex field of geometry. [CITATION Emb12 \l 1033 ]
2.1.3 Evolution of Islamic geometric patterns in India by Mughals
The evolution of Islamic geometric patterns has been considered and understood
by the living Mughal buildings. The Mughal response to European art was not
slavish imitation but creative reinvention. (Sorensen, 2009). Mughals governed as
a multi-cultural empire and depict inspirations from all countless works of art and
architecture (early Islamic, Hindu and Persian styles) stating their multi-cultural
perception. This enhanced their esthetics, training them the worth of geometry in
architecture as a common language of oneness. [CITATION Dad99 \l 1033 ]
Early enduring buildings of Mughals includes the Sher-Shah Tomb (1545 CE) is
decorated with paintings and tiles of floral motifs. 6- and 8- point patterns are
some of the striking examples which can be seen on the windows, marble
flooring, grills and balcony railings of the Humayun Tomb, Delhi (1566 CE).
Foremost 6- and 8- point patterns are also repetitive in the Red Fort of Agra
Figure 2: Geometric pattern of Humayun Tomb in Delhi and Red Fort in Agra.
(1580 CE). Moreover, some 12-point and few simple 10-point patterns are there
in this compound.
By the end of the 16th century, mostly 10-point geometrical patterns were used by
Mughal architects frequently. The Friday Mosque of Fatehpur-Sikri (1596 CE) is a
characteristic structure of this era. Besides the various elegant types of 6-, 8-, 10-
8
point patterns, 14-point geometrical patterns embellish the piers of its main dome,
which were fewest of their kind.
Throughout the next eras, geometrical ornaments turn out to be a vital decorative
element in Mughal architecture, where vegetable motifs were used as secondary
and filler decorative in some cases.
The other characteristic structure of this period which is completely constructed

with sandstone and marble is the tomb of Akbar the great (1612 CE). 6-, 8-, 10-
and 12-point patterns are found here. According to geometrical patterns, Lahore
Fort complex is the other notable building of Mughals, built during the 16 th and
17th centuries. The fountain courtyard, the finishing of stone floor in the Sheesh-
Mahal, and the mosaics of the surrounding wall gets enhances by attractive
geometrical patterns.
9
Figure 3: Geometric patterns of Friday Mosque of Fatehpur-Sikri, Tomb of Akbar,

Humayun Tomb
“Red sandstone, white marble and polychromatic tiles are the main cladding and
decorative materials in Mughal architecture.” (Asher, 1992). Islamic geometric
patterns are one of the crucial decorative elements of both secular and sacred
buildings. As an alternative, they applied great effort to produce precise and
perfect proportions of pattern angles and shapes. However, the scarcest 14-point
geometrical patterns also can be seen in some Mughal buildings. Another distinct
feature is that the geometrical patterns are used in floor finishing designs and
carved window railings more than any other Islamic architectural styles.
To summarize, marking out the evolution of the geometric patterns over the time
depicts the solid influence of Mughals with respective to different regions of India.
The artists and craftsmen tried to make the pattern unique, representative and
complicated. The usage of materials and experimentation of different practices
displays that they learned this art of composition and repetition in any possible
area over the time. The dome walls, floors, minarets, mihrabs, windows and
balconies, all elements have become as the artisans’ canvas for decoration.
2.2. Geometric Patterns of Jali Design
2.2.1. Jali
10
Jali is a fine web or latticed screen, which is an ornate perforated screen can be
seen in Islamic, Indo-Islamic and Indian architecture. As a shading device it is an
egg crate, a blend of horizontal and vertical shading device at a minute scale. It
looks like 2-dimensional, but it is 3-dimensioned with the thickness in addition to
the interlinked balusters forms many small devices equal to a large projection or
a vertical fin. [CITATION Lak16 \l 1033 ]
Jalis have been a noteworthy architectural feature from the ancient times. In
former times these structures play appealing role in a building design and also
played key role in tackling the environment of building ventilation and lighting.
Different techniques, designs, materials have been used for these passive
cooling and lighting. The hot climatic regions have been using the screens
proficiently and has been a part of their building practices for years. [CITATION
Lak16 \l 1033 ]
2.2.2. Geometric patterns of jalis in Mughal Architecture
In the Mughal architecture, jalis or screens are very important architectural

element and they used varied layouts of geometrical patterns which can
observed in most of their works.
Humayun Tomb: A divine eminence is offered to the space, fascinating the

visitor, which makes one to visualize visiting the tomb at that booming empire.
The brilliance of light incoming is representative of the delights the spiritual world
falling on the earth.
Figure 4: Patterns of Jali
Source: Jaalis: A study on aesthetics and functional aspects in built environment (2016)
11
The other best adorned patterns are found in the Fatehpur Sikri. Geometry has
been important in planning along with designing. While designing the patterns,
the Mughal artisans gave more importance on proportions and angles. Best
examples of this period which show the designs with 6-, 8-, 10- and 12-point
patterns over sandstone and marble inlay work.
Figure 5: Jali at tomb of Salim Chishti, Fatehpur Sikri
Source: Patterns tessellation (2008)
Figure 6: Friday mosque of Fatehpur-Sikri and Salim-Chishti (inside the mosque),

several 6,8,10 and rare 14 - point star geometrical patterns.
Source: Geometrical pattern designs used in Mughal Architecture in India during 1526-1737.
(2018)
Most of the Mughal jalis have low sill or sometimes no sill so that the air flows
near the floor. Mostly the lattice screens are constructed with wood, which
absorbs the extra humidity from the air if it presents in it, if sometime humidity is
lesser and air is dry then wood from this lattice humidify the air.
12
2.2.3. Aesthetics:
Metaphorically jali can be related to a shady tree branch, providing shelter to

person underneath from the sun, forming attractive patterns of light on the plane
making a rhyme of nature. A jali being fixed supports as picture windows,
enclosing scenery indoors. They can offer improved esthetics – sight, climatic
well-being. [CITATION Lak16 \l 1033 ]
Figure 7: The sheltering effect of trees and jali at Fatehpur Sikri
Source: Jaalis: A study on aesthetics and functional aspects in built environment (2016)
2.2.4. Characteristics of Jali

The characteristics of Jali by [CITATION Lak16 \l 1033 ]
Repetition: The jalis are mostly in geometric form which means the module is
repeated. Complex patterns are usually made on grids. The composition of the
modules usually consists of squares, triangles or hexagons. Since the patterns
are constantly repeating itself, they create the illusion of continuousness beyond
the frame’s physical boundary, thus making it challenging to identify the overall
patterns initial and final points.
Infinity: The deliberate repetition is representative of infinites nature of God.

Because of this Muslims have faith that human cannot visualize a steady place
for God.
Symmetry: The jalis are generally in symmetrical formed by mirroring of the

pattern or component on the particular stone.
13
Visibility: It provides privacy due to light variance. Along with this, a visual
continuousness at the ground level and clearstory is kept between the
peripheries and interiors.
Quality of light: The first formations of nature is light which is a significant element
in Mughal architecture. As light arrives in and sun’s glare is cut down, the space
gets controlled light. Jalis also weave a delicate play of light and shadow
providing the subtle peaceable value of the space indoors as the shadow
transforms throughout the day and also in varied climatic seasons also gives
privacy due to variance in light levels from outdoor to indoor.
2.2.5. Climatic Aspects:
The velocity of air increases, when it passes through the apertures similar to the
function of a funnel, improving the slight wind exteriors and permits for
profounder infiltration. The wind also gets cool and even functions similar to an
air conditioner compressor. Therefore, enhancing the thermal comfort of the
inhabitants as jali follows both Venturi effect and Bernoulli’s principle due to
which the building breathe.
Approximately, the size of the holes is identical or lesser than the width of the
baluster, implying that each gap has its deepness equal to its height and they are
regularly in the ratio of 0.8-1.2 [CITATION Gan15 \l 1033 ]. The effectiveness of jali as
a shading device is mainly depends on the thickness.
As jalis regulate the light incoming, reflects some amount of light back from the
exterior facade, the heat and unwanted glare are also get decreased with
regulated lighting. The contrast between darkness of opaque baluster and glare
entering in gets soften by the curved baluster. The swollen balusters create a
silhouette which transmits the eyes straight up and horizontally across the
apertures. [CITATION Pan04 \l 1033 ]
14
2.2.6. Usage of Jalis post-Independence:
The new architectural style of Indian buildings has been great influence of west,
to break away from reminiscent of the British which has no respect to its context,
rather than evolving the traditional vernacular which aided its purpose on a social
basis as well as climatically.
The use of jalis got restricted in the urban areas because of closeness of houses,
worries on safety due to livelihood pattern. With the expanding of middle class,
Air conditioners have become identity of status and also replaced traditional jalis.
Whereas, in a region where there is lack of energy also dependent on ACs which
have to be decreased.
In this contemporary world, jalis are constructed with materials like bricks, fly ash,
concrete precast blocks, mud blocks, mdf, wood, etc.
Uses of Jalis in the contemporary buildings:
 Jali is an effective substitute for window in terms of its function.

 It uses less amount of bricks, mortar or any other material to construct an
exterior wall, which saves cost and reduce construction time.
 In the urban context, jalis can be replace glazed windows and reduce the
issue of urban heat island effect.
 Jali provides a climate change solution can allow for aspirations of India as
an emerging economy.
 They guarantee natural light, ventilation and support for stems of plants,
when used for boundary walls.
 Jalis on parapet walls of roofs or terraces allows air flow over the heated
roof or terrace surface decreases the high temperature during day time
and increases the speed of heat loss at night times.
In the current times, many architects have been revived this jali with different
materials. Laurie Baker created jalis with bricks leading to a rat trap bond. The jali
is also a crucial element in Sanjay Puri’s office building. The structure is
enveloped by jalis made of concrete supported on a steel framework, to function
properly.
15
“Projections varies from 0.9m-1.5m form an insulation space at every level in

which plants are grown. Due to Venturi effect external heat and glare is controlled.
A sculptural quality to the façade has been lent by the jali which is reminiscent of
the ancient times and establishes its connection to the current times.”
Popular architectural firm Morphogenesis designed Pearl academy of Fashion in

2008 is an amalgamation of traditional and contemporary, resultant from the
traditional elements of the dry desert climate of Rajasthan. The building becomes
core part of student’s life with the jali double skin 4ft away helping the main
purpose of offering ventilation, light and privacy.
Figure 8: Screens of Sanjay Puri’s Office building, Pearl Academy of Fashion
Source – Roof and Façade Asia: Sustainable and Traditional Design, 2009
16
CHAPTER 3. CASE STUDY – PAIGAH TOMBS
3.1. Introduction
The case study focuses on Paigah tombs which belongs to the Paigah family who
were foremost nobles after Nizams. This is heritage structure is selected because
it has all the characteristic of jali in which the patterns are repetitive, infinity,
symmetry and also enhance the visibility. With respective to its function, it
improves thermal comfort interiors. But some parts of this structure along with the
jalis are damaged due to improper maintenance. Paigahs were more fascinated
of arts who have prolonged their unrivaled elegance even to their tombs. This
heritage structure holds a great significance due the intricate mosaic and lattice
work.
Figure 9: Paigah Tombs and its carving works.
Source: Author
Hyderabad city holds a prominent historical and cultural significance. The city
was under many dynasties of which the city was ruled by Mughal Empire (1687-
1724) and Asaf Jahi dynasty (1724-1948). Nawab Taig Jung Bahadur
constructed these tombs in 1787 by and later his son Amir E Kabir refurbished
this structure. This structure represents Mughal, Asaf Jahi, Deccani, Persian and
Rajasthani style of architecture.
17
3.2. Geometric Patterns of Carvings:
The tombs are constructed with marble and the mosaic works are made of
stucco. There is also a mosque beside these tombs. But now the mosaic and
lattice works are in damage due to improper maintenance.
Figure 10: Floral geometry motif patterns of stucco carvings

Source: Creative Jali Patterns at Paigah Tombs, Hyderabad. (2014)
3.3. Geometric Patterns of Jali:
Paigah tombs have many lattice screens which are used for ornamentation as
well as for its functional aspects. There many types of Jali patterns which
includes Hexagonal, Octagonal, 6-, 8- point star, floral, curvilinear patterns, etc.,
made of stucco on exterior walls of tombs.
18
19
Figure 11: Different Geometrical Patterns of Jali
Source: Author
20
3.1.3. Analysis: Jali Pattern – 1:
21
This pattern formed by interlocking the hexagons from which a 6- point star is
formed in the center and again a hexagon is formed.
Figure 12: Jali Pattern - 1
Source: Author
Jali Pattern – 2:
22
This pattern formed by repeating the 8-point stars from which 5-point stars are
formed.
Source: Author
Jali Pattern – 3:
23
This pattern formed by repeating the 6- point star patterns from which a hexagon
is formed
Source: Author
Jali Pattern – 4:
24
This pattern formed by repeating hexagons with some extensions from which
again a hexagon is formed.
Source: Author
Jali Pattern – 5:
25
This pattern formed by interlocking the hexagons from which again a hexagon is
formed in which a 6-point star is formed.
Source: Author
26
The size of the jali opening is large without a sill similar to Mughal buildings which
were constructed with stucco. Stucco is a construction material made of
aggregates, binder and water. When it applied wet it hardens to a condensed solid
which are sculptured and used as creative material in the architecture which is
found rarely in India. The composition of stucco contains of lime, sand and fibers
for strength. This absorbs humidity from air and stabilizes interior thermal comfort.
The stucco is hard-wearing, appealing and weather resistant work for wall
coverings, sculptures and Jali designs which empowered creative designs.
[ CITATION Anu14 \l 1033 ]
CONCLUSION:
The study chronologically traced the historical significance of Islamic geometric

patterns of Mughals in India. It reveals that Mughals gave great importance for art
and architecture with significant style. The timeline also shows that the varied
geometric patterns of jalis. These patterns are very finely designed as decorative
element as well as to improve thermal comfort and challenge the environment of
building for daylighting and ventilation. Also, these are made with locally available
materials.
After many years of evolution, the Paigah tombs depicts geometric patterns in
lattice and mosaic work made of stucco. The lattice work differs on all orientations
and some of the patterns are examined with the geometric principles.
Traditional methods provide thermally comfortable indoor environment with

respective to its climate. If the traditional knowledge is lost, the identity of the
context disappears, so proper interventions are required to preserve traditional
knowledge.
This research provides the principles of Islamic geometric patterns of traditional

jalis along with its characteristics and functions for architects to create new
patterns based on its principles. These jalis patterns also depict the identity of its
context and promote harmony between indoor and outdoor environment.
References
27
Abdullahi Yahya, M. R. B. E., 2013. Evolution of Islamic Geometric Patterns.

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Jali A Study of Islamic Geometric Patterns, Aesthetics and Its Function

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Appendix-1

JALI: A STUDY OF ISLAMIC GEOMETRIC PATTERNS, AESTHETICS

in the partial fulfilment of the requirements for

Name: G. Pavan Kalyan

Reg. No. 1160100576

S. No. Title Page No.

Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION 1-4

Chapter 2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE 5-15

2.1 Geometric Patterns 5

Chapter 3. Case Study 16-24

I consider it my good privilege to express my sincere gratitude to him. I would also

I am grateful to my Seniors, friends and classmates who continuously motivated me

Keywords: jali/lattice screen, Islamic geometric patterns, Mughal architecture,

S. No. Title Page No.

S. No. Title Page No.

1 Geometrical pattern designed from the division of circle 6

1.1 Background Study:

Traditional architecture provides simple solutions for hard challenges postured by

Perforated screens called as “Jali” in India is an element which is found to be

1.2 Need for Study:

Hot climates provide challenges like sustaining right amount of ventilation,

Buildings consume approximately 40%-50% of total produced primary energy

There is historical significance in the formation of the geometric patterns of

So, there is a need to understand the evolution and formation of geometrical

Geometry plays a major role in Islamic Architecture which is considered as

To learn the principles of Islamic geometric patterns of Jali and incorporate in

 To understand and study the general formations of geometrical patterns.

1.7 Scope and Limitations:

 Taking into the consideration of different architectural styles, only the

CHAPTER 2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE

2.1. Geometric Patterns

2.1.1 Formation of Islamic geometric patterns

Source: Digital Sacred Geometry (2010)

Source: Evolution of Islamic Geometric Patterns (2013)

Source: Pattern, Cognition and Contemplation (2007)

2.1.2. Evolution of Islamic geometric patterns

Figure 1: Geometrical patterns designed from the division of circle

element as well as depicts the astonishing skills and understanding of geometry

contribution in the field of sciences became noteworthy during 10 th century which

2.1.3 Evolution of Islamic geometric patterns in India by Mughals

Source: Evolution of Islamic Geometric Patterns (2013)

The other characteristic structure of this period which is completely constructed

Source: Evolution of Islamic Geometric Patterns (2013)

Figure 3: Geometric patterns of Friday Mosque of Fatehpur-Sikri, Tomb of Akbar,

2.2. Geometric Patterns of Jali Design

2.2.2. Geometric patterns of jalis in Mughal Architecture

In the Mughal architecture, jalis or screens are very important architectural

Humayun Tomb: A divine eminence is offered to the space, fascinating the

Figure 4: Patterns of Jali

Figure 5: Jali at tomb of Salim Chishti, Fatehpur Sikri

Source: Patterns tessellation (2008)

Figure 6: Friday mosque of Fatehpur-Sikri and Salim-Chishti (inside the mosque),

Metaphorically jali can be related to a shady tree branch, providing shelter to

Figure 7: The sheltering effect of trees and jali at Fatehpur Sikri

2.2.4. Characteristics of Jali

Infinity: The deliberate repetition is representative of infinites nature of God.

Symmetry: The jalis are generally in symmetrical formed by mirroring of the

2.2.5. Climatic Aspects:

2.2.6. Usage of Jalis post-Independence:

Uses of Jalis in the contemporary buildings:

 Jali is an effective substitute for window in terms of its function.

“Projections varies from 0.9m-1.5m form an insulation space at every level in

Popular architectural firm Morphogenesis designed Pearl academy of Fashion in