to inquire after the history of its introduction at Mynpuri, where it goes by the name of tarkashi , or “wire work'* ; a v/ord which suggests the possible etymology of the word tarsia *
Inlaid Work of Agra.
The mosaic work of Agra [Plate 5$], an inlay of crystal , topaz, pearls, turquoise, camelian, jade, coral, amethyst, blood-stone, car- buncle, sapphire, jasper, lapis-lazuli, garnets, agates, and chalcedony on white marble, is also chiefly applied to ornamental furniture and household objets dart. It originated in the exquisite decorations of the Taj at Agra [a.d* 1627-1658] by Austin de Bordeaux, and, after almost dying out as a local industry, on the dissolution of the Mogol Empire in 1803, was revived about thirty years ago through the exertions of Dr. J* Murray, late Inspector- General of Hospitals, Bengal* Nearly all the specimens of this work in England, at Windsor and elsewhere, were produced under his fostering care* While Florentine in origin and style, the designs have a thoroughly local character of tlieir own, and, unless influ- enced by injudicious European direction, adhere strictly to the principles and methods of Indian ornamentation. The mosaic being laid on the brilliant white marble of Jaipur, is liable, however, to look vulgar, unless the stones used for it are very judiciously selected*
In the local Guide Mr* Kipling refers to the inlaid work of Lahore, of the time of the Mogol Emperors, which would appear to be similar to that of Agra. u There is, 5 * he writes, “a small though costly marble pavilion, inlaid with flowers wrought in precious stones, and known by the significant name of Naulakha , or the building which cost nine lakhs [90,000/,]* This delicate and beautiful work belongs to the time of Aurangzib ; [the sixth Mogol Emperor, a*d. 1658-1707], * , , The inlay, much of which has unfortunately been destroyed, is remarkable for
