The Cambridge History of India, Vol. IV: The Mughul Period v4.c23.s4.170

v4.c23.s4.170

One of the first buildings of importance to be erected in the city of Bījāpur, and thus illustrating the style in its formative state, was the Jāmi‘ Masjid begun by ‘Alī ‘Ādil Shāh I about 1565. Never quite finished it still lacks the frontage of the courtyard and two minarets which were to complete this portion of its outer façade. An endeavour was made by the Mughul emperor Aurangzīb to supply this deficiency, and under his orders an eastern entrance gateway was added, but on this side of the structure much still remains to be done. The exterior shows a large rectangular building of plain aspect but powerful proportions rising at its western end into a low square battlemented tower supporting a fine dome. As usual this dome is over the central prayer hall of the sanctuary, and it is in the remarkable depth of space covered by the sanctuary that this mosque differs from many others. This arcaded prayer hall consists of five aisles separated by piers, thus dividing the whole into a series of square bays of wide pointed arches; the effect of this great expanse, with its perspective of piers and arches, is very impressive. The appearance of the entire building is forceful and uninvolved, a consummation achieved by the correct relation of its parts and the skilful subordination of the lesser to the larger forms of the composition. Ornament has been sparingly introduced and then only to enrich a shadow or emphasise a line, as may be seen in the cusping of the central arch of the façade, the elaboration of the brackets between the arches, and other features that called for decorative accentuation. All the surfaces have been treated to a coat of plaster, the interior walls having been finished with a layer of very fine quality which has mellowed to a pleasing creamy tint. Amidst this display of austere refinement, on the removal of a heavy protecting curtain covering the central bay containing the principal *mihrāb*, it is surprising to find this particular space embellished with the most gorgeous array of patterns in colour and gold. Although there is much to admire in this unexpected blaze of colour, which depicts arcades and minarets, lamps, arabesques and inscriptions all conventionally treated, it is not in exact harmony with its surroundings and is the work of a later hand.