Name: Architectural Influences Across Empires
Uploaded: 2019-07-19
Duration: 5 min 7 s
Description: India’s historical monuments show the architectural influence across rulers and regions. Learn how these influences shaped the monuments of the past.

Question

How were the monuments constructed by Shah Jahan different from those of Akbar and Jahangir?

Accepted Answer

The fusion of Persian, Central Asian and other regional styles was observed in the monuments constructed during the reign of Akbar. This finally resulted in the creation of a new style. However, during the reign of Jahangir, the construction activity slowed down to a considerable level. The reign of Shah Jahan witnessed great changes in the construction of the monuments. There was a change in style and the material used for the construction.

Some of these changes include:

The red sandstone that was extensively used in the construction of monuments was replaced with white marble.

The pietra-dura technique was implemented in the construction where precious and semi-precious stones were used for the decoration of the walls.

Domes and monuments became the most common feature of the monuments.

Calligraphic verses from the holy Quran and floral motifs were used in most of the monuments.

Curved roofs, small and big arches and multiple columns were some features in the interior of the monuments.

How were the monuments constructed by Shah Jahan different from those of Akbar and Jahangir?

Important Questions on Monumental Architecture

Learn and Prepare for any exam you want !