Integration/Interpretation: The Stylistic Motifs of Mughal Architecture at Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri, the imperial city of Mughal emperor Akbar, exemplifies a transcultural architectural aesthetic that challenges traditional notions of Hindu-Islamic binaries. Through meticulous photographic documentation and analysis of ornamental elements in three key structures, this study reveals a dynamic integration of diverse visual motifs, serving as a subtle tool for cultural unification. Unlike prevailing interpretations that categorize these elements as distinctly religious, the research demonstrates their fluidity and adaptability, reflecting complex cultural interactions. This approach not only identifies a unique 'Akbari repertoire' but also sheds light on the functional and symbolic purposes of the structures within their broader regional context.

Barlow, G. (2011). Integration/Interpretation: The Stylistic Motifs of Mughal Architecture at Fatehpur Sikri. VCU Theses and Dissertations. https://doi.org/10.25772/H7M0-EE59