Albert Hall in Jaipur

It is situated in the Ram Niwas Garden and was inaugurated in 1863 by Prince Albert Hall. The magnificent building is an excellent example of Indo-Saracen architecture and was designed by Sir Swinton Jacob. The architectural style is inspired from existing British models, but the arched verandah’s and domed pavilions indicate a clear Mughal influence. Albert Hall was opened in 1887, as a public museum and is the oldest museum of the State. It house a large collection of archaeological and handicraft pieces.

The various sections represented in the museum are : Art and Industry, Armory, Textiles, Carpets, Paintings, Geology, Zoology, Botany, Toys and Dolls. The central gallery is devoted to Rajasthani Music and Rajasthani Dances, Original music instruments, both classical and folk, are displayed in their functional position. The museum functions as the State Museum of Rajasthan.

Miniature Paintings :- In the 16th century miniature paintings flourished in Jaipur and till date they find a lot of patronage. Vegetable colors are used by the artists and sometimes, precious stones, gold and silver are also used in he paintings.

Toys & Dolls :- Various animal and bird figures are made out of old clothes which are dyed and stuffed with waste material and are gaily decorated with colored paper and tinsel. Jaipur is also known for producing toys, particularly birds in papier-mâché, which are are exquisitely designed and delicately colored.

Puppets :- The art of puppetry has a long tradition in Rajasthan. The most quaint aspect of these puppets is the ways their expressions are painted. These have large expressive eyes with arched eyebrows and a curling moustache for men or a nose ring for the women. Several kinds of colorful puppets can be found displayed around Hawa Mahal. These make good inexpensive souvenirs for the visitors to treasure the fond memories of trip to Rajasthan.