With reference to Medieval Indian History, what does 'Pietra Dura' refer to?

With reference to Medieval Indian History, what does 'Pietra Dura' refer to? Correct Answer Coloured, hard stones placed in depressions carved into marble or sandstone creating beautiful, ornate patterns.

The correct answer is Coloured, hard stones placed in depressions carved into marble or sandstone creating beautiful, ornate patterns.

 Key Points

  • Pietra dura is a floral design made up of semiprecious stone.
    • One of the most significant, captivating, and impressive characteristics of Mughal Art and Architecture in India is the Art of Pietra Dura.
    • This involves and inlay work of delicately cut, fitted, and highly polished semiprecious stones like Lapislazuli, Agate, Jasper, Jade, etc..
    • It is the technique of inlaying semi-precious stones such as jade, onyx, turquoise, mother of pearl, etc. in marble or sandstone creating beautiful, ornate patterns.
    • It is also called as called Parchin kari or Parchinkari.
    • Pietra Dura is an ancient art form that blossomed in Italy and eventually spread across Europe, Russia, Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan.​

Additional Information

  • The tomb of Itimad- ud -Daulah is often regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal. 
  • It was built by the Mughal queen Noor Jahan, wife of Emperor Jehangir.
  • It is known for the first use of the pietra dura.
  • Jahangir's reign is known for the adoption of the pietra dura work.
  • Shah Jahan used Pietra dura in the construction of the Taj Mahal as well.

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