ISLAMIC ART AND ARCHITECTURE

Published on 13 Sep 2025

The advent of Islamic medieval architecture in India can be traced back to the 12th century when the Delhi Sultanate was established. The arrival of Islamic rulers, particularly the Turks and the Mughals, introduced a new architectural style which retained the local elements as well as introduced elements from Persian styles to form Indo- Islamic or Indo Saracenic architecture.

Difference between arcuate and trabeate style

Key Features of Medieval Indo-Islamic Architecture

• Architectural Innovations

• Introduction of arches and domes: The arcuate style replaced the trabeate style. This was a major innovation as it allowed for construction of larger and more complex structures. 

• Example: Alai Darwaza in Delhi

• Use of mortar: Mortar was used as a cementing agent, it allowed for the construction of more durable and weather-resistant structures. It became increasingly common after the arrival of Islam.

• Example: Adina mosque of Bengal

• Decorative Elements

• Use of calligraphy: Calligraphy is a highly developed art form in Islam and is often used in architectural decoration. It is often used in mosques, tombs and other religious buildings.

• Example: Taj Mahal in Agra

• Use of Geometry and arabesque style: Both were used as a decorative motif and are used in the decoration of walls, floors and ceilings. 

• Example: Akbar’s tomb in Agra.

• Intricate Jaali work: Jaali screens filter light and add elegance to the structure.

• Example: Bibi ka maqbara in Aurangabad.

• Pietra Dura inlay technique: Pietra dura inlay of stones and gems can be found on stone walls, and use of colored marbles can also be found. 

• Example: Moti masjid in New Delhi

• Elements of Islamic Architecture

• Importance of water and Charbagh method: This method divides the garden into four halves and water was also evident in the building where it was mainly used for cooling, religious and aesthetic reasons.

• Example: Humayun’s tomb in Delhi

• Minarets: Minars are long standing structures which were usually built around mosques and mausoleums.

• Example: Qutub Minar in Delhi

• Avoidance of human and animal figures: This is a distinctive feature of Islamic architecture, and it is also found in some Hindu architecture of the medieval period. This is because Islamic law prohibits the depiction of living creatures, and this prohibition was often followed in architectural decoration.

• Example: Jama Masjid in Delhi

• Foreshortening technique: This method makes the inscriptions appear closer

• Example: Moti masjid in New Delhi

The advent of Islamic medieval architecture in India was a gradual process influenced by various dynasties that ruled over different regions. It evolved from initial assimilation of Islamic elements with indigenous architectural styles to magnificent synthesis of regional styles. Various provincial schools like Bijapur and Deccani emerged from such synthesis.

Tags:
History & Culture

Keywords:
ISLAMIC ART AND ARCHITECTURE islamic ARCHITECTURE islamic art Indian ARCHITECTURE trabeate style ARCHITECTURE art Delhi Sultanate mughal medieval architecture Persian style Indo- Islamic ARCHITECTURE Indo Saracenic architecture Key Features of Medieval Indo-Islamic Architecture arches domes Alai Darwaza mortar Adina mosque Taj Mahal arabesque akbars tomb Jaali work Bibi ka maqbara Pietra Dura Moti masjid Elements of Islamic Architecture charbagh Humayun’s tomb Mina

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 1

Topics:
Art and Architecture