Relevant Titles
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Art & Architecture in Mughal India: CBSE Class 12 MCQs & Practice Test
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NCERT-Aligned MCQs: Mughal Monuments, Painting and Garden Design (Class 12 History)
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CBSE Class 12 History Practice: Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri & Mughal Painting — 60 MCQs
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Quick Revision: Charbagh, Pietra Dura, Jali Work — Mughal Art & Architecture MCQs
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Sample Questions on Mughal Architecture, Miniature Painting & Court Patronage — Class 12
Introduction
Sharpen your CBSE Class 12 History preparation with this NCERT-aligned MCQ practice set on “Art and Architecture in Mughal India.” Tailored for Part B — Medieval India, Theme 9: Kings and Chronicles — The Mughal Courts, this resource covers major topics such as Mughal funerary and palace architecture, garden planning (charbagh), decorative techniques like pietra dura and jali work, the use of red sandstone and white marble, and the evolution of Mughal painting traditions from Akbar to Shah Jahan. Each question mirrors board-style phrasing, offers four plausible options and provides a concise explanation that ties answers back to NCERT perspectives and primary-source examples. Use these MCQs for timed practice to build accuracy and speed, for quick revision before exams, or in group study sessions to stimulate discussion on style, symbolism and patronage. After attempting the questions, revisit the relevant NCERT chapters and illustrated extracts to consolidate understanding. Regular practice with focused, source-aware MCQs will improve recall, refine analytical reading and boost confidence for board examination success.
Sample MCQs with Explanations
Q1. Which Mughal monument best exemplifies pietra dura inlay, white marble refinement and the charbagh garden plan?
A. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi
B. Taj Mahal, Agra
C. Agra Fort (red sandstone)
D. Fatehpur Sikri Palace
Correct: B — Taj Mahal, Agra.
Explanation: The Taj Mahal integrates white marble, pietra dura inlay and a formal charbagh layout; it is the classical example of Shah Jahan’s funerary and garden-tomb aesthetic.
Q2. The charbagh concept in Mughal gardens is derived primarily from:
A. Indigenous village commons
B. Persian garden planning symbolising paradise (fourfold division)
C. Chinese rock gardens
D. European Baroque parterres
Correct: B — Persian garden planning.
Explanation: Charbagh (four-part) gardens reflect Persian and Timurid models symbolising a paradisiacal layout divided by water channels or paths.
Q3. Which decorative element—used as a carved stone screen—creates patterned light, ventilation and privacy in many Mughal buildings?
A. Pietra dura
B. Jali (latticed screen)
C. Fresco mural
D. Timber fretwork
Correct: B — Jali.
Explanation: Jalis are carved stone lattice screens that filter light and air while producing decorative shadow patterns; they are a functional and aesthetic hallmark of Mughal design.
Q4. Which Mughal emperor is most associated with the transition from widespread red sandstone use to extensive employment of white marble and refined inlay work?
A. Akbar
B. Jahangir
C. Shah Jahan
D. Humayun
Correct: C — Shah Jahan.
Explanation: Akbar favoured red sandstone; Shah Jahan’s reign marked an architectural shift to white marble, elaborate inlay (pietra dura) and highly refined ornamentation.
Q5. Mughal miniature painting under Akbar is noted for:
A. Complete rejection of Persian models in favour of only local folk styles
B. A syncretic Akbari school blending Persian technique with Indian themes and narrative detail
C. Monumental frescoes on palace exteriors only
D. Exclusive use of oil on canvas from Europe
Correct: B — Syncretic Akbari school.
Explanation: The Akbari painting school combined Persian miniaturist technique with Indian naturalism, narrative storytelling and local motifs to create distinct courtly illustrations.