MUMBAI’S ART DECO

Grade 8
 What comes to your mind when you
think of Indo-Saracenic Architecture?
 INDO-SARACENIC ARCHITECTURE:
A BACKGROUND

● British Influence
● Cultural Synthesis
● Islamic Influence
● Advancement in Technology
● Revivalist Movements
● Significance of functionality

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 CHARACTERISTICS
● A distinctive fusion combining Indian, Islamic and
European designs.
● Created a hybrid architectural language which was
prominent during British colonial period in India.
● Drew inspiration from Mughal, Rajput, and
Indo-Islamic styles, incorporating features such as
domes, arches, minarets, and intricate
ornamentation.
● The structures incorporated Islamic style
components like Islamic arches, domes, and
geometric patterns.
● Includes Indian designs such as balconies,
courtyards, and ornate carvings inspired by
traditional Indian architecture.
● European influence on the style by incorporating
Gothic and Renaissance elements.
● A testament to the confluence of diverse cultural
and architectural traditions in India
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 NOTABLE STRUCTURES

● Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Terminus (formerly Victoria
Terminus) ,Mumbai
● Gateway of India, Mumbai
● Mysore Palace, Mysore
● High Court Buildings- Chennai,
Mumbai
● Indian Museum, Kolkata
● Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Mysore Palace, Mysore
● Salar Jung Museum,
Hyderabad

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6 Victoria Terminus, Frederick William
Stevens, Axel Haig, 1887
What do you think of the term art deco?
 ART DECO: A BACKGROUND

● A response to Art Nouveau

● Inspired by modernism
● Role of Global Expositions
● Social and Economic changes
and cultural dynamism
● Cross-cultural influence
● Interest in luxurious aesthetic

Niagara Mohawk Building, New York, 1932

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 MUMBAI’S ART DECO: A BACKGROUND

● Urbanization and Expansion- A

Commercial hub
● Economic Prosperity
● Influence of Cinema
● Role of significant architects
● UNESCO Recognition
● A witness to city’s rich evolution

Regal Cinema,1933
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 MUMBAI’S ART DECO: FEATURES

● Geometric shapes and

patterns
● Streamlined forms
● Horizontal and vertical lines
● Flat roofs
● Decorative elements
● Curved corners
● Glass blocks and windows
● Symmetry and asymmetry
● Unique building layouts

Shiv Shanti Bhuvan,Oval Maidan,

1934-35
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11 New India Assurance Building, Mumbai, 1936