See the beautiful techniques of marble sculpting and gem inlays honoured and preserved at this historic emporium.
The Agra Marble Emporium, or Subhash Emporium, is a tribute to the generations-old technique of hand-sculpting marble and precious stones into beautiful designs. See artisans meticulously sculpting and shaping their creations, visit the magnificent showroom and take home a small marble statue of your own.
Learn about the fascinating technique of inlaying precious stone into marble, brought to Agra by Italian stonemasons working on the Taj Mahal. The style is known as Parchin Kari and became popular with the Mughals during the 17th and 18th centuries.
The craft was nearly lost during India’s tumultuous battle for independence, when artists were forced to find other means of income. Phool Chand Bansal reinvigorated the craft when he opened the Agra Marble Emporium in 1962. Bansal was inspired by the stunning craft in the Taj Mahal and sought to find and reemploy artisans working with the unique Parchin Kari lapidary and carving techniques.
See the devoted artisans crafting stonework for flowers, geometric shapes and Taj Mahal images with hand-turned wheels. Artisans then chisel small designs into the marble and fit stones into the details before polishing the piece into a glossy shine. This meticulous craft requires a huge amount of precision and time, and even small decorative elements can take many days to complete.
Wander through the elegant showroom, featuring pieces by Bansal’s son, Umesh Chand Bansal. His artwork is highly sought after and recognised worldwide. Discuss custom designs and techniques with the staff.
See the many natural colours of jasper, abalone shell, lapis lazuli and other gemstones incorporated into magnificent patterns on lamps, jewellery boxes, detailed tables and furnishings. The colours of the lamps are beautifully illuminated when lit.
Visit the gift shop to purchase souvenirs, including small marble statues of Indian gods, tiny Taj Mahal replicas, stunning inlaid vases, paperweights and candleholders.
Find Agra Marble Emporium opposite BSNL Stadium. The emporium is open daily and features international shipping on all items. A hotel pick-up and drop-off service is also available for those visiting from participating hotels.
