ANCIENT MARVELS. Using acrylics and gold leafing. (Mixed media) My painting is inspired by one of the most fascinating structures in India, Agra “ THE TAJ MAHAL” built between 1632 and 1653. One is captivated and enthralled on seeing the Taj Mahal and the delicate patterns that cover the huge marble blocks. These patterns are actually stone inlays and this work is know as “Parchin Kari” or “Pietra Dura”. These are the terms used for inlay techniques of using cut and fitted highly polished coloured stones. Inspired by The Taj MahaI, I have been working on a series know as “ANCIENT MARVELS” . As I challenge myself working on this intricate and complicated geometrical design and try to capture its beauty, I think about the the 20000 workers who labored their sweat and blood to construct this marvel over 20 years. Legend has it that Shah Jahan who built this masoleum in the memory of his loving wife, Mumtaz Mahal, later had the arms of the workers who had constructed The Taj, cut off, thus ensuring that they were never able to recreate this beauty ever again elsewhere in the world!!