This week the dictionary fell on the word Arch
See Sue’s A Word in Your Ear to join in the challenge
The Taj Mahal, still one of the Seven Wonders of the World, attracts millions of visitors each year. The traditional southern view of the white domed mausoleum doesn’t always demonstrate the sheer scale of the building, nor take into effect the remainder of the integrated structures on the complex.
(Above) Crowds of visitors queue to enter the tomb which is the central focus of the complex. The central iwan (arch shaped doorway) is flanked by side pishtaqs (Iranian term for a portal projecting from the facade of a building.)
Given that Islamic Art forbids the use of the human image, the work of Mother Nature is the obvious spotlight. That, and transcripts of The Koran that run around all the doorways, makes the delicacy and the detail of all the decoration of this lovely place a true joy to behold. In line with the Islamic prohibition against the use of anthropomorphic forms, the decorative elements can be grouped into either calligraphy, abstract forms (geometric and herringbone patterns) or vegetative motifs.
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Great shots Jude. I especially like the interior shot in orange/red (The Arcades). Very nice…Regards as always, Pete. x
Thanks Pete, it is an extraordinary building and so beautiful close-up.
Astonished by the forms and the colors – sheer beauty!
The colours are not particularly noticeable from a distance, but up close are incredibly rich and intricate. It is one of those buildings which actually exceeds its reputation.
There are some unknown wonderful arches in my city, in some unacknowledged wonders of the world.
There are wonderful arches throughout India, but this is an exceptionally beautiful building and well-deserved of its status in the world.
It’s true, what you say. I’m just telling you that the well-deserved status of Taj Mahal should not make me, and you, forget about some unacknowledged deserving beautiful buildings. With the power to photograph comes the responsibility to represent too.
Such beautiful photos of the Taj Mahal. It is still on my list of places I want to visit.
Thank you. It is a beautiful site and sight! Though much more crowded than it used to be!
Stunning photos! The Taj Mahal is so beautiful. 🙂 http://holley4734.wordpress.com/2013/09/19/photo-challenge-arches/
Thanks Holley 🙂
Gosh! This is incredibly beautiful! I especially love the last one so much!
Thanks 🙂
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