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Title: Architectural Legacy of Zīb Al-Nisāʾ: Patron of First Mughal Woman Architect
Authors: Sana Hafeez, Najma Kabir, Azka Ahsan
Journal: International Journal of Human and Society (IJHS)
Publisher: Educational Scholarly Horizons
Country: Pakistan
Year: 2024
Volume: 4
Issue: 1
Language: English
Standpoint Theory in the discipline of women studies suggests that prevailing knowledge of a society is governed by the powerful and therefore minorities and depreciated communities have historically been ignored or marginalized, especially when it comes to the production of knowledge.
As evident from the works of architect queen Nūrjahāṇ and architect princess Jahāṇāra Begum, it is clear that History of our region, has a fair share of women prodigies in every field and profession, and architecture is not an exception. Unfortunately, their works are seldom highlighted or researched on, resulting in important historical facts lost in confusion created by ahistorical statements and irresponsible conclusions.
The first and most beloved daughter Zīb al-Nisāʾ clashed with her father to retain control and authority that was available to her predecessor. Aurangzīb transformed himself into an absolute authority on state as well as religion and adhered to a strict orthodox interpretation of Islam. This not only adversely affect female power but unfavorably affected arts in general. Despite the challenges that female court faced during Aurangzīb era, highly educated, enlightened and wise ladies of Mughal court continued to contribute and leave their mark on Mughal architectural history.
To investigate the architectural contributions and patronage of women during the Mughal era, specifically focusing on Princess Zeb-un-Nissa, and to challenge the historical marginalization of female contributions in architecture.
Qualitative methodology utilizing a thorough examination of traditional and non-traditional sources, including scholarly works on gender-sensitive Mughal architecture, architectural relic conservation, and socio-political/cultural factors influencing women's empowerment.
graph TD
A["Literature Review on Mughal Women & Architecture"] --> B["Source Analysis: Texts, Inscriptions, Visuals"]
B --> C["Identify Architectural Contributions of Women"]
C --> D["Focus on Princess Zeb-un-Nissa"]
D --> E["Analyze Specific Projects: Chauburji, Tomb, Palace"]
E --> F["Evaluate Roles: Patron, Architect, Supervisor"]
F --> G["Synthesize Findings on Female Agency"]
G --> H["Formulate Conclusions on Architectural Legacy"]
The study argues that women, even during restrictive periods like the Aurangzeb era, actively participated in self-representation through architectural patronage, mirroring historical practices in the wider Muslim community. Their contributions, often overshadowed by male counterparts, served political, religious, practical, and ideological purposes, bestowing immortality upon their names. The research aims to rectify the oversight in art and architectural history by highlighting the significant roles of women like Zeb-un-Nissa, challenging the notion of them being mere anomalies.
- Princess Zeb-un-Nissa, despite facing restrictions, was a patron of architecture and a poet.
- Chauburji Gate in Lahore, built in 1646, is a significant architectural monument with inscriptions suggesting patronage by "Sahib-i Zbinda Begum-i Dauran," likely Zeb-un-Nissa.
- Miya Ba', a woman of high social standing, may be considered the first documented female architect/builder in Mughal history for her role in the Chauburji project.
- The Tomb in Nawan Kot, Lahore, and the Palace of Zeb-un-Nissa in Aurangabad are also attributed to her patronage or influence.
- Zeb-un-Nissa is credited with the innovation of a portable "mirrored tent" (inah tent) made of mica.
Women during the Mughal era, particularly Zeb-un-Nissa, actively engaged in architectural patronage, demonstrating their autonomy, significance, and influence. Their contributions, though often devalued due to gender, are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of architectural history and women's roles in society.
- Chauburji Gate was built in 1646 AH (1056 AH).
- Princess Zeb-un-Nissa was born on February 15, 1638.
- The Palace of Zeb-un-Nissa in Aurangabad was photographed by Deen Dayal in the 1880s.
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