Document 17-4: TULSI THE ELDER AND MADHU THE YOUNGER, Akbar Inspects the Construction of Fatehpur-Sikri (ca. 1590–1598)

A Capital Fit for an Emperor

In 1569, the Mughal emperor Akbar (r. 1556–1605) decided to build a new capital for his empire. Built on a site a little more than twenty miles from the existing capital of Agra, Fatehpur-Sikri would be a walled complex of palaces, mosques, and pleasure gardens. It is believed that Akbar took a direct hand in designing the complex and that he kept a close eye on the project over the course of the fifteen years needed to complete its construction. While the basic style and design were Persian, Indian influences can be seen in many of the buildings. The illustration from the Akbarnama (Memoirs of Akbar) included here shows Akbar supervising the construction of his new capital. As you examine it, think about what it reveals about carrying out such a building project in sixteenth-century India. What resources, both human and material, went into the creation of Fatehpur-Sikri?

image
Victoria & Albert Museum, London, UK/The Stapleton Collection/Bridgeman Images.

READING AND DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. What does the image suggest about the Mughals’ knowledge of architecture and engineering?
  2. What were the sources of that knowledge?
  3. What kinds of workers contributed to the construction of the city? What importance should we attach to the fact that Akbar is shown in conversation with a humble artisan?