Albert Hall Museum, Jaipur

The history of the foundation of the Albert Hall Museum dates back to the year 1876, when Albert Edward, the Prince of Wales visited India. The purpose for which the monument was to be used was still undecided and in the year 1887, the building opened up as a public museum displaying objects of art that could help local artisans and craftsmen to get inspired.

The suggestion of opening it up as a museum was put forward by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II.

The architectural style of the museum is that of Indo-Saracenic type. The building is marvelous to look at. The museum holds around 19000 objects of historical importance and they are all vividly showcased in the exemplary galleries. You will be awestruck by the varied collection at the place. It is one of the oldest museums in Rajasthan and the state is proud of this historic emblem.

You will be able to witness a majestic display of arms, ammunitions, sculptures, pottery, musical instruments, jewelry, marble arts, clay models, paintings and various other objects. The museum also has an Egyptian mummy belonging to the Ptolemaic Epoch.

The gallery in the ground floor was remodeled in the year 1959 and since then, it is dedicated to Rajasthani dressing and jewelry. The display minutely covers cultures of all the tribes dwelling in the Rajasthan state. You will be able to spot dresses and jewelry of Maharajas, privilege class, and small tribal class people as well.

The Mehndi Mandana typically impresses people from the west as it displays the ‘Mehendi skill’ (henna body art), prevalent in India (especially in Rajasthan). The central gallery is based upon the music and dance style of Rajasthan. It is interesting to know about the music and dance culture of Rajasthan and tourists are always keen to watch live Rajasthani performances.

A striking object in the museum is Persian Garden Carpet that depicts the scene of a garden with water streams gushing out. The carpet was bought from Shah Abbas of Persia at a very dear price by the then Maharaja, Mirza Raja Jai Singh I.

The Darbar Hall, an eminent section in the museum, holds the record for the largest floor covering in the world.

Photography inside the museum is allowed and you can take pictures of these exclusive items housed in the museum. It is a great place to visit with family as well. You will be amazed by the excellence of the place. India’s culture and heritage is sure to impress the visitors and the museum is a live example of this fact.

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