Mapin books are jointly published and distributed in the US, UK and Europe through our US-based partner, Grantha Corporation. All Mapin books carry a Grantha ISBN for the ease of ordering through our respective distributors in this region. Customers in the regions mentioned above should use the Grantha ISBN for reference while looking for our books in bookstores, online stores and libraries.
Over a hundred stone craftsmen have worked for over three years on the Humayun’s Tomb conservation project. They have used the same tools and techniques that would have been used by craftsmen who built the Tomb in the 16th century. Though sandstone craft skills survive in India, the building craft sector has not received the attention that has been paid to the handicraft sector though more people can find employment in the building sector industry.
Conservation of Mughal heritage in India can only be carried out if skills survive, yet the conservation effort is not yet of a quantum to keep thousands employed. This documentary-publication aims at allowing architects, sculptors, artists, and engineers the systems, tools, techniques, process and benefits handcrafting stone elements brings. Cost, quality, ageing comparisons with machine-cut stone show how handcrafted stonework can have favourable cost benefit.
Founded and guided by His Highness the Aga Khan, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture projects promote the conservation and re-use of buildings and public spaces in historic cities in ways that can spur social, economic and cultural development.
