Question

Which of the following architectural elements is excluded from the construction sites of the Indus Valley Civilisation?

• A. Iron Slabs
• B. Sun Dried Bricks
• C. Baked Bricks
• D. Mortar of Gypsum

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Iron Slabs

Indus Valley Civilisation: Architectural Materials and Exclusions

Commonly Used Materials:

• Bricks: The Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC) is renowned for its extensive use of standardized, baked bricks, particularly for residential buildings and public structures. These bricks were typically sun-dried or kiln-fired and came in various ratios, with the most common being 4:2:1 (length:width:height).

• Wood: Timber was extensively used for roofing, beams, doors, and window frames. Various types of wood were likely utilized, sourced from surrounding forests.

• Stone: While less common than bricks for general construction, stone was employed for specific purposes such as foundations, drainage systems, tools, and decorative elements. Limestone and sandstone were among the materials used.

• Mud Mortar: A mixture of mud and sometimes lime was used as a binding agent for bricks and stones.

Architectural Elements NOT Found:

• Iron Slabs: There is a conspicuous absence of iron in the architectural constructions of the IVC. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Indus people were primarily a Bronze Age civilisation. While they knew of iron, its use in construction or as a widespread tool material is not evident from the excavated sites. This contrasts with later Indian civilisations where iron played a significant role.

• Large Stone Structures: Unlike contemporary or later civilisations that built monumental stone temples or palaces (e.g., Mesopotamian ziggurats or Egyptian pyramids), the IVC architecture primarily relied on brickwork. Major public buildings like the Great Bath at Mohenjo-daro, while impressive, are constructed from bricks and bitumen.