48th to 52nd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2008

Transition to High Mughal Style

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Itmad-ud-Daula's tomb at Agra was built by-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept The Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula is a pivotal monument that marks the transition of Mughal architecture from the heavy red sandstone of Akbar to the refined white marble of Shah Jahan.

Explanation Constructed between 1622 and 1628, the tomb was commissioned by Empress Nur Jahan for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg (who held the title Itmad-ud-Daula). It is often called the 'Baby Taj' because it was the first Mughal structure built entirely of white marble and the first to feature extensive Pietra Dura inlay.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Nur Jahan was a powerful patron who oversaw the most sophisticated architectural developments of Jahangir's reign.
Logic 2: The tomb's delicate, jewel-like decoration set the aesthetic precedent for the Taj Mahal.

Active Recall

Question

Why is this tomb called the 'Baby Taj'?

Answer

Because it mirrors the white marble and inlaid stone aesthetic that would later be perfected in the Taj Mahal.

Core Insight

The tomb represents the peak of feminine patronage in Mughal history, prioritizing elegance and decorative precision over massive scale.