The mausoleum is crowned with a double dome. The outer dome would originally have been clad with marble as is found at Humayun’s Tomb with the marble also serving as a protective layer for the underlying masonry. This marble was stripped in the 19th century exposing the underlying random rubble masonry. The inner layer of the outer dome is in exposed brick masonry and had significant and deep cracks, visible on this inner face. Following a structural analysis of the structure and close monitoring of the cracks, conservation works to the inner dome commenced in 2016, finished with a protective layer of lime plaster. It is proposed to add a symbolic addition of marble to the outer dome.
Significantly, and as a development from Humayun’s Tomb, drains from the void between the double dome can be seen emanating in the drum – indicating that the builders had planned for regular cleaning and possibly washing of this space, left almost inaccessible at Humayun’s Tomb.
A decorative white marble band on the neck- at the springing point of the dome – has largely been stripped of its marble, exposing the rubble masonry beneath. A careful study of the original design of this band was carried out with close inspection and comparison with the Taj Mahal, Safdarjung’s Tomb and Humayun’s Tomb. This has been restored to the neck of the dome as per the original design by craftsmen who crafted the stone onsite using traditional tools and techniques.
