Agra Fort, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
The "Hall of Audience" and its demarcated areas inside were embellished with fine European brocades and Iranian carpets, which gave the hall luster and awe in the hearts of the nobles and the public who visited. Though the building was constructed in red sandstone, it was plastered with white shell plaster to resemble white marble. The raised rectangular chamber where the emperor addressed the people was ostentatiously ornamented.
The "Hall of Audience "was where the emperor addressed the general public and the nobility. Walking through courtyard after courtyard, one is amazed as the scale of what was built here begins to sink in. The hall once housed Shahjahan's legendary Peacock Throne, which was inset with precious stones, including the famous Kohinoor diamond.
The "Hall of Audience," located inside Agra Fort, is open on three sides. The hall is divided into 27 square bays, each with a system of columns supporting the arches. The roof is made of sandstone beams. The way the columns and arches are proportioned is unique. The ceiling and columns are painted gold. It reflects a high level of craftsmanship.