Britannica
Sources used in this answer
What architectural features distinguish early Pashtun-style buildings in Delhi?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Delhi
Delhi, India, designated a World Heritage site.
By the time of the Khalji dynasty (1290ā1320), a distinct architectural idiom known as the Pashtun style had been established in Delhi. This style is characterized by several specific features that distinguish it from earlier Islamic construction in the region:1
- Materials and Surfaces: Buildings typically feature red sandstone surfaces accented with intricate white marble inlays.1
- Arches: A hallmark of the style is the use of arches shaped like a pointed horseshoe.1
- Ornamentation: Structures are marked by abundant and intricate decoration, including arabesques and the inclusion of inspirational texts.1
- Functional Elements: Windows in these buildings are frequently fitted with perforated screens.1
Prominent examples of this early style in Delhi include the Quwat-ul-Islam mosque, the Qutb Minar, the tomb of Iltutmish, and the Alai Darwaza.1