ART AND ARCHITECTURE OF THE SETHI HAVELI, PESHAWAR

Abstract

The research is based on the documentation of “Art and architecture of the Sethi haveli, Peshawar”. It is a case study of Karim Bakhsh Sethi haveli Peshawar (commonly known as Sethi haveli), which is presently in the possession of Department of Archaeology, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This research is based on the documentation, and finding of the historical evidences related to the Sethi Havelis1 in general and Zanan Khana2 of Karim Bakhsh Sethi haveli in particular. In this research the decorative elements are given due importance and it has also been proved at some point that these decorative elements have some symbolic value, and use of Islamic design in the haveli has association with deeper Sufistic approach. The research question rotates around the main focus on documentary investigation of the haveli but with special emphasis on the utilization of the artistic decorative elements applied in the Karim Bakhsh Sethi haveli in Mohallah 3 Sethian Peshawar. The study revealed some significant facts about the cultural and heritage value of these haveli buildings, that were not only used for residential purpose but they had significance more than that. Haji Karim Bakhsh Sethi haveli was used for residential as well as business purpose. The presence of record that was found in the haveli regarding their sub business houses that worked in other countries of the world proved that the Sethi house was used for business office. This research provided a unique chance to study the fabric of palace like residences that were called havelis due to their social, religious or business significance. The walled city of Peshawar is overwhelmingly filled with enormous havelis. The research is divided in to two sections: first section is focused on the history of Peshawar, history of Sethi family and architecture of the Karim Bakhsh haveli Peshawar; while the second section is based on the decorative elements and application of design in wood work, Cheeni khanas, Khatam bandi, fresco painting and painted ceilings with the worldview of an artist and art lover. This process of 1 Sethi Mansion 2 Special place of living for the female 3 Enclavevi detailed documentation provided cultural insights, into the processes of design, construction, procurement, and inhabitation of the haveli. During this detailed analysis of the haveli, along with indigenous some international influences have also been notified. Local architect and artist families have been located and oral interviews provided some clues to the unparalleled artwork of the haveli Karim Bakhsh Sethi. Since this haveli was owned by a well-established businessman of his time and it was used as a business center with its sub-offices in other countries of the world like Russia, Afghanistan, Iran, India, Britain and some other Central Asian countries. So it reflects influences of these places in its architecture, as especially in art of the haveli both local and international influences are evident. In the research and documentation process other eminent havelis of Peshawar were also briefly documented and photographed for better understanding of haveli architecture. This research is analytical as far as the documentation of the decorative elements is concerned. It will open new vistas for the future researchers to research the objectives of decoration in the haveli. It also fulfills the desire of the researcher to fill the gap in research related to the art and architecture of the haveli by looking at it from the eye of an art enthusiast. In order to appreciate the artwork of the haveli from a different perspective; of an artist and art enthusiast, analytical drawings and paintings have been created by the researcher to understand the value and application of design in the Sethi haveli Peshawar. The study fills a significant gap in the documentation of research in havelis. Keeping in view the work of previous researchers which was usually specified on the different sections of the haveli, more emphasis is given on the architectural and decorative elements of the haveli with the point of view of an art enthusiast. Previously the Sethi haveli was documented in bits and pieces but this research unveils new horizons in the field of documentary research. The research concludes with the need for continuous restoration and conservation of such heritage places that can be used as a great source of income generation and tourism development.