Philosophy of Interior Design in Mughal Era Mosques of Lahore: A case study of Maryam Zamani and Wazir Khan Mosques

Abstract

A great reflection and convergence of Persian, Turkish and Indian architecture is observed in Mughal architecture, which is known as a remarkably symmetrical and decorative amalgamation of these architectures. Muslim and non-Muslim scholars of history have appreciated, identified and recognized the extremely attractive Mughal signs, decorations and beautifications. It has been observed that Mughal architecture is not limited and specified to mosques only but has been used in all other Islamic buildings including their gardens. These signs and decorations have combined different features, elements and components of Islamic architecture and art together. Mughal era has been known as the greatest era which defined the splendid and extravagant phase of Islamic architecture. Therefore, the basic purpose of this paper is to find out how these features and decorations of Mughal architecture used in mosques stem from Islamic principles. The basic aim is to conduct the semiotic analysis of two mosques of Mughal era which have been selected for examination and identification. Hence, this study outlines the importance and scope of Mughal mosque architecture. It examines the decorative style used in this architecture by scrutinizing the basic characteristics of its structure. Moreover, it discovers the real purpose and spiritual meaning of these mosques. The spiritual values are considered significant as they influence the spirit that brings harmony in life. Throughout the Islamic world, this spiritual aspect has been observed as the most dominant factor and element which gives an important underlying message to all Islamic art. Mughals have played a significant role in Islamic art which cannot be ignored and avoided. The findings indicate that the typical Mughal mosques are not just mere representation of religious buildings or places for worship, instead they are something more than that. These mosques have their spiritual connection with art and architecture which cannot be ignored. Their color, shape, volume, texture, and designs all offer the fundamental message of Islam, the incarnation of “peace” and “submission” from which Mughal mosques derive their uniqueness in architecture.