The architectural forms of the Great Enclosure at Great Zimbabwe and the Great Mosque of Djenné are heavily defined by the physical properties of their primary building materials. Which of the following statements correctly compares the construction techniques dictated by these materials?
- Great Zimbabwe relies on dry-stone masonry where shaped granite blocks are stacked without mortar to form massive, stable walls, whereas the Great Mosque of Djenné is built from sun-dried mud brick and plaster that require periodic communal resurfacing using projecting wooden scaffolding.Answer
- BGreat Zimbabwe relies on sun-dried mud bricks reinforced with internal timber supports to withstand seismic activity, whereas the Great Mosque of Djenné is constructed entirely from mortarless granite blocks that resist erosion from annual flooding.
- CGreat Zimbabwe utilizes a post-and-lintel system with imported marble columns to support its open plazas, whereas the Great Mosque of Djenné employs concrete barrel vaulting to create wide interior spaces for worship.
- DGreat Zimbabwe features load-bearing walls made from fired clay bricks bound together by lime mortar, whereas the Great Mosque of Djenné consists of a timber-frame structure clad in woven reed panels and stucco.
Answer
Great Zimbabwe relies on dry-stone masonry where shaped granite blocks are stacked without mortar to form massive, stable walls, whereas the Great Mosque of Djenné is built from sun-dried mud brick and plaster that require periodic communal resurfacing using projecting wooden scaffolding.
The correct answer accurately describes the materials and structural methods of both sites. Great Zimbabwe is famous for its mortarless dry-stone masonry using local granite blocks, while the Great Mosque of Djenné is built of adobe (mud brick) and plaster, requiring periodic maintenance using timber torons as scaffolding during the annual festival.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Comparison of African monumental materials and structural maintenance requirements