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Model of Shalimar Gardens
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
Model of Shalimar Gardens
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
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Model of Shalimar Gardens

Artifact IDMO 63.1942.1
Object Type Sculpture
Date ca. 1962
Date Presented3/21/1962
Maker (Lahore, Pakistan)
Place MadeLahore, Pakistan, Asia
Place of GiftLahore, Pakistan
Medium Silver, gilded silver, velvet, wood
DimensionsOverall H 12 1/4 in x W 22 in x D 26 in (31.1 cm x 55.9 cm x 66 cm )

Physical DescriptionSilver and silver-gilt model of the second terrace of Shalimar Gardens. The terrace was designed as "charbagh", a “four-fold” square garden divided symmetrically into quarters by parterres, a form often used by the Mughals. There are pavilions and audience halls on the edges of a large central pool filled with fountains. The large pavilion has three niches and a ramp carved to appear like cascading water. In front of that is a raised enclosure. On both sides of the pool are audience halls with 5 porticos. Opposite the large pavilion are two small porticoed pavilions. Green velvet is used to represent grass and there are flowers and cyprus trees growing at the corners. The model rests on a rectangular wood base.
Historical NoteThis model was presented to First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy by the Citizens of Lahore during her state visit to the Shalimar Gardens in Pakistan on March 21, 1962.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was a gift from a foreign official to the President and First Lady received through the Executive office during the Kennedy Administration and transferred to the General Service Administration where it was held until donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteThis material is not subject to any known copyright or other image use restrictions.
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