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| Architecture and Art of the Deccan Sultanates | George Michell & Mark Zebrowski (1999) |
Published in 1999 as part of The New Cambridge History of India: Volume I – The Mughals and Their Contemporaries, this work by George Michell and Mark Zebrowski offers a thoroughly illustrated and scholarly investigation into the architectural and artistic heritage of the Deccan Sultanates—recognized as some of the most artistically vibrant and culturally diverse Islamic kingdoms in South Asia.
The text examines the four main Deccan Sultanates—Bijapur, Golconda, Bidar, and Ahmadnagar—spanning the 14th to 17th centuries, emphasizing their unique blend of Persian, Turkish, and Indian artistic influences.
The Deccan Sultanates arose following the fall of the Bahmani Sultanate in the late 15th century. These states:
Mark Zebrowski (d. 1999) was a notable art historian who focused on Islamic art and Indian painting, known for his contributions to decorative arts. This text stands among his most significant achievements in the study of Indian art.
The text examines the four main Deccan Sultanates—Bijapur, Golconda, Bidar, and Ahmadnagar—spanning the 14th to 17th centuries, emphasizing their unique blend of Persian, Turkish, and Indian artistic influences.
Overview of the Book
Historical ContextThe Deccan Sultanates arose following the fall of the Bahmani Sultanate in the late 15th century. These states:
- Maintained political independence while being culturally linked.
- Functioned as cultural intermediaries between the Northern Indian Mughal Empire and the southern Hindu kingdoms.
- Cultivated an artistic identity that was separate from both Delhi and the South.
Key Themes in the Book
Monumental Islamic Architecture- Examines mosques, tombs, madrasas, and palatial structures created by rulers in Bijapur, Golconda, Bidar, and Ahmadnagar.
- Emphasizes the incorporation of domes, arches, minarets, and grand scales.
- Famous landmarks such as the Gol Gumbaz (Bijapur) and Qutb Shahi tombs (Golconda) are scrutinized in depth.
- Notable characteristics include stucco decoration, construction with black basalt, and Persian inscriptions.
- Analyzes miniature paintings, calligraphy, metalworking, textiles, and ceramics.
- Explores the impact of Persian styles within manuscript art (particularly during the Qutb Shahis of Golconda).
- Introduces lesser-known Deccan styles characterized by vibrant colors, fluid compositions, and deep symbolism.
- Focuses on defensive structures, featuring forts with sophisticated bastions and moats.
- Planned cities like Golconda and Bijapur incorporated layouts with gardens, waterways, and designated areas for craftsmen and courtiers.
- Merges military purpose with ceremonial designs.
- The Deccan Sultanates acted as cultural melting pots—comprised of Turks, Persians, Arabs, South Indians, and Africans (like the Habshi generals).
- The book underscores this blended aesthetic, merging Islamic designs with local Hindu temple embellishments, native flora and fauna, and regional materials.
- Richly filled with photographs, illustrations, architectural layouts, and reproductions of art.
- Provides visual contrasts with Mughal and South Indian examples to underscore the uniqueness of the Deccan aesthetic.
About the Authors
George Michell is a prominent expert on Indian architecture, having authored numerous works regarding temple design and Islamic structures.Mark Zebrowski (d. 1999) was a notable art historian who focused on Islamic art and Indian painting, known for his contributions to decorative arts. This text stands among his most significant achievements in the study of Indian art.
Why This Book Is Important
- It represents the first extensive academic examination exclusively centered on the art and architecture of the Deccan Sultanates.
- It highlights a relatively overlooked region that has been vital to Indian cultural history.
- Suitable for visual learners (thanks to the plethora of illustrations) as well as researchers seeking thorough examination.
Who Should Read This Book?
- Students studying Islamic and South Asian art history
- Architecture buffs intrigued by non-Mughal Islamic styles
- Researchers exploring Deccan's regional identity and politics
- Civil service candidates (UPSC, CSS) focusing on India’s cultural richness
- Travelers and history enthusiasts exploring Bijapur, Golconda, or Bidar
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