Diwan-i-am Diwan-i-Am or the Hall of public audience was the place where Shah Jahan (A.D. 1628-58) received the general public and heard their grievances. With a courtyard in the front, it was originally surrounded by arcaded apartments used by chiefs (Umaras) on duty. With an impressive facade of nine engrailed arch openings, the hall was ornamented with gilded stucco work. In the centre of the eastern wall, stands a marble canopy covered by a 'Bengal roof', under which was placed the Emperor's throne. A marble dais below the throne, inlaid with semi precious stones, was used by the Wazir (Prime Minister) for receiving petitions. Behind the canopy, the wall is decorated with beautiful panels inlaid with multi-coloured stones (pietra dura work), representing flowers and birds, said to have executed by Austin de Bordeaux, a Florentine jeweller.