STUCCO WORK IN ARCHITECTURE WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO LUCKNOW

Abstract [English]

This paper examines the tradition of stucco work and architectural mouldings in Lucknow, tracing its evolution from the early precedents through the Nawabi era to its present conservation challenges. Lucknow's architectural identity stands out due to its lime stucco tradition. This craft was born out of geographical necessity due to the absence of building stone in the Ganga Doab area. Drawing on primary site documentation, scholarly literature, and conservation reports, this study analyses the material composition, stylistic range, and cultural significance of stucco work across key monuments like the Bada Imambara, Sibtainabad Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, Constantia (La Martiniere College) and some other monuments of Lucknow.The paper further examines the cross cultural dimensions of Lucknow's stucco traditions, arguing that the incorporation of European neoclassical mouldings within local craft frameworks most visibly at Constantia represents a significant instance of decorative syncretism in colonial era India. The paper concludes with a critical assessment of conservation challenges and policy recommendations for the protection of this endangered craft heritage.