ROLE OF GEOMETRICAL ART IN THE MORPHOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT OF MUGHAL TOMBS

Art and architecture are said to be interconnected from a long time. Mughal time period has been said to have the maximum art and art influence in its era. The architecture of that time is termed to be marvellous and spectacular. Art is considered something that is unique and a form of self-expression. The aim of this paper is to investigate the geometry used in morphological development of Mughal monuments and in their transitions. Live case study is done to explore the different elements, their geometry, artworks


INTRODUCTION
Throughout time since the ancient ages to the modern history and then by now, the correlation between art and architecture is deemed to be as an inseparable symbiotic relationship Dawoud & Elgizawy (2018).In contrast to architecture, art might not be useful in the conventional sense; for example, in meeting social needs, providing shelter from the rain, or creating a space for open-heart surgery; but it might be useful in that it offers specific resources for introspection, critical thinking, and social change Rendell (2006).Al-Farabi said that the bases of architecture lie

5) Visual Illusions and Perception
Geometry was used in Mughal architecture to create visual illusions and enhance the perception of spaces.Techniques such as the use of geometric patterns, repetitive motifs, and arabesque designs created a sense of depth, movement, and rhythm.The manipulation of geometry allowed architects to play with light, shadow, and perspective, adding a dynamic and captivating element to the architecture.

6) Integration of Art and Architecture
Geometry served as a unifying element that connected art and architecture in different architectural styles & periods.The use of geometric patterns and motifs in architectural ornamentation created a seamless integration with other art forms such as calligraphy, ceramics, and mosaics.Geometry provided a common language through which different art forms could be harmoniously combined, resulting in the rich artistic traditions seen in Mughal architecture.
Literature informed that the Mughal Empire in the Indian subcontinent blended Islamic and Indian artistic traditions, resulting in the creation of unique geometric patterns.Geometric designs were combined with floral motifs and calligraphy.In this context, Reki & Selçuk (2018) elaborated that the floor designs incorporate 6 and 8 point geometrical motifs in Humayun's Tomb, Delhi, which are elegantly sculpted and carved in the balcony railings and window grills (also known as screens or jali).Further, in addition to the same, a few geometric designs with 10 and 12 points also makes use of the same materials and patterns in Red Fort, Agra (1564-80 CE).Friday mosque in Fatehpur-Sikri (1571-96 CE) is very good example which shows that Mughal architects started to employ more 10-point geometric designs near the end of the 16th century Embi & Abdullahi (2012).Few researchers like Krusche et al. (2010), Ali & Hassan (2019), Ali (2016), Lowry (1987), Khazaee (2015) discussed the aspects related to the morphological development of Mughal buildings.Elaborating on the morphological development of Mughal Tombs, the use of the octagonal form, first observed at Humayun's tomb, softens the abrupt change from a cube to a spherical dome, easing the eye's movement from the pointed arch Iwan to the circular dome reaching into the heavens Krusche et al. (2010).
Overall, the use of geometry in the built form development (Morphology) in Mughal architecture demonstrates the integration of mathematics, aesthetics, and spirituality.It creates architectural structures that are not only visually captivating but also imbued with symbolic and cultural meaning.The application of geometric principles in Mughal architecture contributed to the distinctive and awe-inspiring architectural heritage that continues to inspire and captivate people to this day.In summary, geometrical interventions in Mughal art are defining characteristics which permeate various art forms.The precise execution of geometric patterns and designs reflects the intellectual rigor, craftsmanship, and spiritual depth within Mughal artistic traditions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS
Since the nature of this research is Historical and interpretative, therefore methodology adopted for this research are: Historical Interpretative and Case Study approach Groat & Wang (2013) and Yin (2018).To achieve the desired objectives of the research, this research was carried in two phases: Phase I conceived to review the available literature and elaborating on Geometrical art and its intervention in the morphological development of Mughal Tomb structures.Also thereby identifying the criteria and indicators to observe the geometrical art in Mughal Architectural practices.
Phase II explores the geometry in the morphological development of Mughal tombs.Research proceeds to analyse the identified case studies from Mughal tomb structures on the identified criteria and indicators from the phase-I.This section will adopt both qualitative and quantitative data collection/analyses framework.First the desired primary data (qualitative) was collected from the live case studies and then got evaluated to work out the findings and inferences quantitatively.Therefore, geometry as an art studied in the morphological development of Mughal monuments and a quantitative analysis of the different Architectural elements like dome, Façade, arches etc and materials used in Mughal monuments is developed.
For Evidence and data collection, triangulation approach in the case study is used Groat & Wang (2013) and which enabled the researcher to verify the facts from different sources and perspectives that helped further to make the concrete observation and generalizations about the phenomenon or research aspects.Multiple sources of evidences adopted for this research are: Documentation, direct observations, archival records, and audiovisuals Yin (2018).

LITERATURE STUDY (PHASE I)
Geometry in Morphological Study: Identifying Indicators of study A literature review was conducted of earlier researches focusing on morphological aspects of Mughal buildings.This review includes several research papers and articles from different online platforms like Google Scholar, Scopus, Academia, Research Gate etc.
Description of included studies and criteria of studies:  Review of above-mentioned research document conducted on the aspects: material used, geometry & Planning and built/unbuilt forms (identified through preliminary review of research documents) with different case studies to identify different keywords used under each aspect.These key words are further collected and arranged in categories of similar orientation Saquib (2020) as follows:

EXPLORING GEOMETRY IN MORPHOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT OF MUGHAL TOMBS: (PHASE II) 4.1. DEFINING INDICATORS 4.1.1. ARCHITECTURE ELEMENTS
These include the fundamental components of a structure or design, such as domes, arches, and columns, which are characteristic of Mughal architecture.The use of geometry in these elements helps create a harmonious and visually appealing design.

GEOMETRY AND PATTERN
Geometry and patterns are essential aspects of Mughal architecture, as they contribute to the visual appeal and structural integrity of the designs.The use of repetitive geometric elements, such as star patterns, rosettes, tessellations or fractal patterns etc, can be seen in the decoration of mosques, monuments, and other architectural elements Majewski (2021).

AXIAL STUDY
Axial study in Mughal architecture involves analysing the spatial organization and circulation patterns of a building or space.This can include studying the arrangement of axes, sight lines, and circulation paths to understand how people move through and experience a space Krusche et al. (2010).

RATIO & PROPORTIONS
Ratio and proportions are crucial in Mughal architecture, as they help create aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound designs.The use of mathematical relationships between different elements of a design contributes to the visual harmony and balance of the architecture Krusche et al. (2010).

MATERIAL & TECHNIQUES
In Mughal architecture, materials and techniques are closely related to the use of geometry and morphological development.The primary materials used in Mughal architecture, such as stone, brick, and wood, are shaped and constructed using geometric principles to create intricate and visually appealing designs.

CASE STUDIES SELECTION
Case studies identified for this study are: Humayun's Tomb, Delhi (1560-1570 CE) and Itmad-ud-Daula's Tomb, Agra (1622-1628 CE).Rationale behind the selection of these two buildings as case studies: as Humayun's tomb structure is considered as one of the first Mughal tomb structure in India which act as the source of references for many following tomb and other Mughal structures.The reference of dome geometry of Humayun's tomb is further reflected in the Taj Mahal, Agra.Similarly, Itmad-ud-Daula's tomb built during Jahangir period is considered as one of the best remarkable examples for the use of art forms like geometrical patterns, arabesques and calligraphy and this structure acted as the source of art forms references in Taj mahal, Agra.Importance of these two structures can also be understood in following manner:

HUMAYUN'S TOMB (1560-1570 CE)
Humayun's Tomb located on the flat plain near the bank of river Yamuna and surrounded by a series of other Sultanate and Mughal monuments Lowry (1987).This monument is fine example of Mughal architecture made up in red sandstone and white marble, resting on massive plinth made up of fifty-six cells containing grave stones.This plinth is of 6.5 m high, square in shape measuring one side 99 m and measuring the height of the monument is 42.5 m above the ground level.Though the plan of the monument is square but because of the chamfering edges it appears to irregular octagon.As Figure 2 shows, the plan of the tomb structure is nine-fold plan, comprising of four octagonal chambers connected through the four recessed passage ways.The outer facades of the monument are simple and flat surfaces punctured by arched recesses arranged around the central chamber.This tomb structure has two floors (Figure 1): the first floor is composed of a central domed chamber with main gravestone and small chambers around it connected through narrow corridors.The ground floor is made up of series of hall and passageways arranged around the central domed chamber.This massive tomb structure is set in the center of garden the garden known as chahar bagh.A series of cross axially arranged canals and pathways divided it four quadrant and giving the definition of 'Chahar Bagh ' Lowry (1987).The major aspects of Humayun's tomb designing are: its scale & proportions, Use of Geometry in built form development, cross axially symmetrical plan, Chahar bagh concept, use of combination of red sand stone and white marble executed in core rubble finish.

ITMAD-UD-DAULA'S TOMB (1622-1628 CE)
This marvellous white marble tomb known as Itmad-ud-Daula's tomb was built by Noor Jahan although both Nur Jahan's mother, Asmat Begum, who died in 1621, also buried there along her father.It took six years to be completed.This tomb structure follows 9-fold pattern in plan as shown in Figure 4 and placed in the center of the garden (based on chahar bagh concept) like Humayun's tomb, Delhi.This mausoleum structure is situated on the Yamuna River bank and comparatively small on scale.It is a two storeyed marble structure which also famous for its art work and decoration.This mausoleum is a very rich example of Mughal art where all forms of Mughal art (geometric patterns, arabesques and calligraphy) are displayed and also executed in pietra dura (inlay) technique.
The white marble tomb is exquisitely carved and heavily inlaid with semiprecious stones.It is situated on a modest pedestal that is roughly 7 meters on each side Asher (1992).The nine bays that make up the inside are conceptually reminiscent to Humayun's tomb layout and in contrast to the octagonal radial plan of Humayun's tomb, eight rooms; two on each side; hug the center vaulted chamber in this arrangement.The central truncated pyramidal vault is flanked by chattritopped turrets at each corner of the second floor.Both the inside of the second floor and the white marble façade of the tomb are heavily inlaid with semi-precious stones Asher (1992).To study Itmad-ud-Daula tomb (Figure 9 and Figure 10), Architectural elements: Minaret, Arch niche and Arch entrance way were studies for analysing the role of geometry in the morphological development.Minaret of the tomb shows the 10 level of transition starting with octagon as basic shape and transforming to circle from 5 level with six axes used.Further arch niches on the façade, starting with rectangle as basic shape and converging to a line on top with 5 level of transition.Similarly, entrance Arch way started with rectangle as basic shape and converged to a line at top.The same pattern has been repeated on both sides of each façade as structure is symmetrical on its axes.Further evaluating the geometry on façade development, as images of Figure 10 shows, the surface area occupied by the geometric patterns, arabesques and calligraphy on façade 1 (wall surface) is 25%, 42% & 3.7% respectively.Similarly, façade 2 (minaret wall surface) shows the area occupied 29.4% (Geometrical patterns), 37.8% (arabesques) and 1.18% (calligraphy).Furter elaborating on artwork vs plain surface ratio, on façade 1 it is 2.86:1 and on façade 2 it is 2.45:1 which shows heavy influence on art intervention on both the surfaces.Looking on to the morphological geometry on the façades, it shows the use of squares and rectangles which defines the basic outline of the facades in which further art work like geometrical patterns, arabesques and calligraphy inscribed in inlay technique.This study also deciphers the solid vs void ratio for both facades in case of openings and niches.Abdullahi & Embi (2013) Findings from both the case studies shows that both tomb structures are cross axial in nature and are symmetrical to their axes.In earlier study, humayun's tomb, it is executed in red sand stone and at some places inlay work in sand stone with marble has been observed whereas in later case tomb structure made with marble.Both the structures served as reference for the world-famous monument or tomb Taj Mahal.Morphological references of the taj were taken from Humayun's tomb whereas art work references were taken from Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb.Ali & Hassan (2017)

CONCLUSION
Geometry is the fundamental unit and division used in architectural design and transformation.Transitions and element design may both benefit from the usage of geometry.The use of various geometrical shapes, their combinations and transformations, height/depth of their transitions, and the number of transitions occurred in an element, can all be learnt from Mughal architectural practices, which were regarded as the pinnacle of architectural design.Al-Mosawi (2016) This study can aid future investigations into the function of various forms, the seamless transition and transformation of these shapes from one to another.Additionally, it can aid in the progression of learning about those ideal proportions and the application of geometry.In earlier researches, the measurement of artistic intervention in building was less prominent.This study will allow a general examination of Mughal structures with a comparable backdrop, this quantification can support in the design of features of similar contexts.Future researches may also be: the purpose of diverse forms, as well as the smooth transition and transformation of these shapes from one to another, may find their references in this study.This study can also help to advance the application of geometry and the study of those ideal proportions.Findings of this study direct the strong relation of geometrical art with the morphological development of Mughal structures and tomb buildings in particular.The measurement of creative construction intervention was less significant in earlier study.This quantification may support the creation of features for analogous situations by enabling a broad analysis of Mughal structures against a comparable background.
Five indicators: 1. Architecture elements, 2. Geometry & patterns, 3. Axial study, 4. Ratio & Proportions and 5. Materials & techniques are taken as inferences out of the literature review and considered further for the study of phase-II.Major evidences under these indicators were collected through direct observations and audiovisuals by conducting live case studies of two Mughal Tomb structure of importance: Humayun's Tomb & Itmad-ud-Daula's Tomb.

Table 1 Literature Review on Geometry, Built Forms and Material Used Reference Methodology Case Study Material Geometry & planning Built/unbuilt forms
• Structural Analysis of Domes Mohammad Amir Khan, Sanjana Moondra, and Mohd Arshad Ameen ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts Role of Geometrical Art in the Morphological Development of Mughal Tombs ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts

Table 2 Table 2 Indicators Identification Keywords/Phrases
Source Author Arrangement and alignment of keywords/phrases under different identified categories results into the development of study indicators.Further, this table highlights the different categories/indicators discussed and analysed by the researchers and shows that major studies conducted under these categories prominently.Out of the identified indicators, large number of keywords are from the categories: Architecture & elements and Geometry & Pattern which shows that development of 'Architecture & elements' is more related with Geometry and Patterns in context of use of geometry in morphological development during Mughal Architecture.