A deeply carved sandstone element from a balcony or a Jharokha window, Rajasthan, Jaisalmer, late 18th-early 19th century, the central panel decorated with two deeply carved pearl roundels enclosing perforated stars around a central lotus bud, separated by ridged columns, below are a row of strutting peacocks and above a band of dynamic and intricate vegetal arabesque typical of the fusion of Hindu and Muslim styles and craftsmanship, 46cm. high x 66.5 cm. diam. x 6.5cm.This fragment is likely from a grand Hindu haveli mansion, very similar in style to the Salim Singh haveli in Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer is renowned for its particular pale sandstone and for its distinctive style of architectural decoration. It is particularly noted for its havelis. Salim Singh was a member of an important Mohata family who had been serving as diwans to the Maharawal before him and became Diwan in succession to his father, Sarup Singh, who was murdered in 1783. By the end of the 18th century, Salim Singh became the most powerful person in Jaisalmer, controlling access to the Maharawal. He also became immensely wealthy. In 1823 two noblemen attempted to murder him but failed. He died a few days later when one of his wives successfully poisoned him and he was then succeeded in office by one of his three sons.Please refer to department for condition report