Question 1

What is नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick)?

Accepted Answer

नानकशाही ईंटें (Nanakshahi Bricks), also known as लखौरी ईंट (Lakhori Bricks) or पतली ईंट (Patli Bricks), are terracotta bricks prevalent in 18th-19th century Sikh architecture across Punjab and Haryana. These bricks, typically 25-28cm x 10-13cm x 2.5-4cm, were fabricated from alluvial clay sourced from riverbeds, a process documented in traditional *sthapatya shastra* texts [2]. Firing occurred at 900-1000°C, yielding a compressive strength of 2-20 MPa, water absorption of 15-30%, and density of 1400-1800 kg/m³ [3]. Their high porosity (20-30%) necessitates careful conservation.

Used extensively in load-bearing walls, arches, and decorative brickwork, these bricks are integral to structures from the Sikh Empire (1799-1849). Conservation efforts require compatible repair materials, often involving clay sourced from similar geological origins to maintain *रूप और रंग* (form and color). Traditional brick hammers [1] were used in their construction. The chemical composition, primarily silica and alumina, influences durability. Understanding the *आयु* (lifespan) of these bricks is crucial for heritage preservation.

Question 2

What type of material is नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick)?

Accepted Answer

नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick) is classified as Clay Brick, Terracotta. Key properties include Compressive strength: 2-20 MPa, Water absorption: 15-30%, Density: 1400-1800 kg/m³.

Question 3

Where is नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick) used?

Accepted Answer

नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick) is commonly used in Punjab (India), Haryana (India). It is sourced from Local kilns in Punjab, Local clay deposits in Punjab.

Question 4

How is नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick) is used for Load-bearing walls, Vaults, Arches, Decorative brickwork, Paving in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick) requires attention to Susceptible to salt attack and Erosion of brick surface. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Nānakashāhī Īnṭ Nanakshahi Brick 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	नानकशाही ईंटें (Nanakshahi Bricks), also known as लखौरी ईंट (Lakhori Bricks) or पतली ईंट (Patli Bricks), are terracotta bricks prevalent in 18th-19th century Sikh architecture across Punjab and Haryana. These bricks, typically 25-28cm x 10-13cm x 2.5-4cm, were fabricated from alluvial clay sourced from riverbeds, a process documented in traditional sthapatya shastra texts [2]. Firing occurred at 900-1000°C, yielding a compressive strength of 2-20 MPa, water absorption of 15-30%, and density of 1400-1800 kg/m³ [3]. Their high porosity (20-30%) necessitates careful conservation. Used extensively in load-bearing walls, arches, and decorative brickwork, these bricks are integral to structures from the Sikh Empire (1799-1849). Conservation efforts require compatible repair materials, often involving clay sourced from similar geological origins to maintain रूप और रंग (form and color). Traditional brick hammers [1] were used in their construction. The chemical composition, primarily silica and alumina, influences durability. Understanding the आयु (lifespan) of these bricks is crucial for heritage preservation.
Also Known As	Nanakshahi Brick Nānakashāhī Īnṭ Nanakshahi Brick Lakhuri Brick Thin Brick Sikh Brick नानकशाही ईंट लखौरी ईंट पतली ईंट सिक्ख ईंट नानकशाही इंट लखौरी इंट
Tags	Nanakshahi Brick Lakhuri Brick Thin Brick Sikh Brick Clay Brick Terracotta Punjab Sikh Architecture
Material ID	`INHFMAT-201996891-20-11-25-NA`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/nanakshahi-bricks
API Endpoint	`https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/nanakshahi-bricks`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	1
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	18th Century CE 19th Century CE Sikh Empire (1799-1849)
Dynasties	Sikh Empire

Title	Type	Notes
Studies in Sikh Architecture	Architectural History	Brickwork analysis
Architectural Heritage of Punjab	Architectural Survey	Use of Nanakshahi bricks in Sikh architecture
Studies in Sikhism and Comparative Religion	Journal Article	Architectural analysis

नानकशाही ईंट (Nanakshahi Brick)

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