Which of the following are the main features of 'Saracenic' architecture? 1. Arch 2. Vault and dome 3. Lintel and beam 4. Application of lime cement Select the answer using the code given below.
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3
- C.1, 2 and 4
- D.1, 3 and 4
Correct answer
Explanation
The correct answer is C, 1, 2 and 4. Saracenic, or Indo-Islamic, architecture is built on the true arch, the vault and dome, and lime mortar, while lintel and beam belong to the older Indian style.
The Turks brought to India the arcuate style of building, in which the weight of the roof is carried by arches and domes. A true arch needs strong binding material, so lime mortar (lime cement) came into wide use with it. Early examples are the Alai Darwaza (1311), seen as the first building with true arches and a true dome in India, and the tomb of Balban, which has the first true arch. Hindu temples before this followed the trabeate style, where horizontal beams rest on vertical posts.
A is wrong: it leaves out lime cement, which made true arches and domes possible.
B is wrong: lintel and beam is the trabeate method of Indian temples, not a Saracenic feature.
D is wrong: it includes lintel and beam and leaves out the vault and dome.
Exam tip: arch, dome and lime mortar mean arcuate (Indo-Islamic); lintel and beam mean trabeate (temple).
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