New Delhi, June 21: The conservators working under the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and Archaeological Survey of India have found historic wall painting at the ceiling of the Humayun's Tomb located in Delhi a few days ago. Many of these hidden wall paintings have been reportedly made of gold. After the discovery, the Aga Khan trust has roped in international archaeologists to find out measures to preserve this heritage beauty.

“On the removal of 20th century cement and lime-wash layers, remnants of 16th-century painted decorations were discovered on the domed ceiling which would have originally been completely covered with floral paintings with blue, yellow, red, white, and even gold, being the predominant colours,” said an official to the Times of India.

Surprised by the hidden artefacts, the officer further said, "It seems much of the painting was lost due to the seepage of rainwater and efforts are underway to ensure it never recurs. Portions of the plastered surface have also fallen away due to structural movement in the building."

The Humayun's Tomb has historical significance. The structure was believed to be built in the 16th century by the Mughal Emperor Humayun in Delhi. It was commissioned by Humayun's first wife and chief consort, Empress Bega Begum, also known as Haji Begum in 1569-70, and designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyas and his son, Sayyid Muhammad. History says that Persian architects were chosen by her to construct the tomb. Also, it is also considered to be the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, which is close to the Dina-Panah Citadel, also known as Purana Qila (Old Fort), that Humayun founded in 1533.

Furthermore, it was also the first structure to use red sandstone at such a large scale. The tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, and since then it has undergone extensive restoration work, which is said to be completed. Every day several tourist visit the historic monument in Delhi.

The work to conserve and restore the wall paintings of the ceiling is being carried out under the corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds, according to the trust officials.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 21, 2018 03:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).