CAPF AC 2025 Q44: Art & Culture – Architecture & World Heritage
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
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 4
Explanation
Saracenic architecture
How to think: 'Saracenic' (Indo-Islamic) architecture used a curved system, unlike the Hindu temple's straight post-and-lintel system.
| Feature | Saracenic? |
|---|---|
| 1. Arch | Yes, a true arch |
| 2. Vault and dome | Yes |
| 3. Lintel and beam | No, the trabeate system of Hindu temples |
| 4. Application of lime cement (mortar) | Yes, lime mortar was used as a binding material |
The Indo-Islamic style joined arch, dome, vault and lime mortar with Indian decoration.
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 4.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Lime mortar (item 4) is also a Saracenic feature.
- (b) Incorrect. It includes the lintel and beam, which belong to the Hindu style.
- (c) CORRECT. Arch, vault and dome, and lime mortar mark Saracenic architecture.
- (d) Incorrect. It leaves out the arch and the dome, and wrongly includes the lintel.
Key point
Saracenic (Indo-Islamic) style: arch, dome, vault, minaret, lime mortar, squinch. Hindu style: trabeate (post, lintel, beam). Combined in Mughal and Sultanate buildings.
Remember
Saracenic = arcuate: arch, dome, vault, lime mortar. Trabeate = lintel and beam.
Common mistakes
- Adding the lintel and beam because Indian buildings use them.
- Forgetting the lime mortar, which allowed arches and domes to hold.
- Mixing trabeate and arcuate: arcuate (arch) is Saracenic.
Exam tip
Educated guess: arches and domes are the best-known signs of Islamic buildings, so items 1 and 2 are certain. Lintel and beam is the opposite system, which leaves (c).
Sources
- Nitin Singhania, Indian Art and Culture, chapter on Indo-Islamic Architecture
- NCERT Class XI An Introduction to Indian Art, Part I, Chapter on Architecture in the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal period