Hasan Art Studio HISTORY OF INDIAN ART (Question Bank) Session 2023-24

Multiple choice Questions:

1) Udaipur, Deogarh and Nathdwara were the main centres of which painting school?
i) Mewar School ii) Marwar School
iii) Haroti School iv) Dhundar School
2) Mention the title of painting done by Painter Nihal Chand of the Rajasthani School?
(i) Radha (Bani Thani) (ii) Krishna lifting mountain
(iii) Krishna with Gopis (iv) Maru Ragini
3) On which mythological book, the famous miniature painting Bharat Meets Rama at Chitrakuta is
based?
(i) Geet Govinda (ii) Ramayana
(iii) Guruvani (iv) Rasikpriya
4) To which school the ‘Maru Ragni’ painting is located?
(i) Pahari school of Miniature painting
(ii) Mughal School of Miniature painting
(iii) Rajasthani School of Miniature painting
(iv) Deccan School of Miniature painting
5) In which its sub school the famous miniature painting of the Rajasthani school ‘Krishna on Swings’
is made:
(i) Bikaner Sub school (ii) Jaipur Sub School
(iii) Kishangarh Sub school (iv) Jodhpur Sub School
6) Mention the title of the miniature painting done by the Nuruddin Painter of the Rajasthani School:
(i) Radha (Bani-Thani) (ii) Chaughan Players
(iii) Bharat meets Rama at Chitrakut (iv) Krishna on Swings
7) Nagari das was a………
(i) King (ii) Servant
(iii) sculptor (iv) None
8) which painting school became famous for its life-size portraits made in realistic style
i) Mewar school ii) Basohli school
iii)Jaipur school iv) Kishangarh school
9) Mention the title of miniature – painting of the Kishangarh sub-school of the Rajasthani School that
is included in your course of study:
(i) Radhika (ii) Radha (Bani-Thani)
(iii) Radha-Shyam (iv) Bharat Meets Rama at Chitrakuta
10) Who made the first Scientific division of Rajasthani Painting?
(i) Ananda Koomara Swamy (ii) Arvind Kumar Singhania
(iii) Mukul Raj Anand (iv) Ramgopal Vijayavargiya

Answers: -
1)- (i), 2)- (i), 3)- (ii), 4)- (iii) 5)- (i), 6)- (iv), 7) -(i), 8)- (iii), 9)- (ii), 10)- (i).

FOR CLASS XII (CBSE) 1

Hasan Art Studio HISTORY OF INDIAN ART (Question Bank) Session 2023-24

Short Questions (Answer to be written for each is about 100 words):

1.‘Raghukul Reeti Sada Chali Aaye, Praan Jai Par Vachan Na Jaai’
• Which miniature painting from Rajasthan School showcasing strong bond of brotherhood
between Rama and Bharat, re-lives this saying and how has the artist helped us in elevating our
state of life by imbibing these virtues and family values?
• Give an example through an episode from the present-day scenario which will help our future
generation in character building.

Answer:

The miniature painting from the Rajasthan School titled "Bharat meet Rama at
Chitrakuta" by artist Guman beautifully captures the strong brotherly bond between Rama and
Bharat, echoing the saying 'Raghukul Reeti Sada Chali Aaye, Praan Jai Par Vachan Na Jaai' (The
tradition of the Raghu dynasty always continues; one may lose their life, but never break their
promise).
In this Ramayana episode, Guman illustrates the virtuous commitment of Bharat to persuade
Rama to return to Ayodhya after the passing of Dasaratha. The artist, using watercolor and
tempera, enhances the narrative, depicting familial values of duty, love, and sacrifice. The
composition, with 49 labeled figures, emphasizes the emotional reunion of the brothers in the
serene setting of Chitrakuta.
Relating this to present-day situations, the painting serves as a timeless example for character-
building. It encourages understanding familial bonds, selfless duty, and loyalty. Emphasizing such
values in contemporary stories can guide future generations in cultivating strong character,
fostering unity, and promoting the timeless virtues of love and commitment within families. The
artist, through this masterpiece, elevates our way of life by immortalizing these virtues and
emphasizing their enduring importance.

2. During the early 19th century, India was a male dominant society. Dana showed Women
Empowerment, their versatile personality and showcased them overcoming traditional norms.
• Throw light on the valour shown in the subject matter of Dana’s painting from your syllabus.
• How can this Rajasthani painting still help in broadening the mindset of our society?

Answer:
Dana's painting titled "Chaugan Players" from the Jodhpur sub-school is a significant
representation that highlights women's empowerment and challenges traditional norms in the
early 19th century, especially in a society where men typically dominated. The painting depicts
two princesses actively participating in a game of polo with their attendants, showcasing the
versatility and courage of women breaking away from conventional roles.

FOR CLASS XII (CBSE) 2

Hasan Art Studio HISTORY OF INDIAN ART (Question Bank) Session 2023-24

Dana's portrayal goes beyond just showcasing a sports scene. It symbolizes the bravery of women
actively engaging in activities traditionally considered for men, challenging societal norms. The
image of princesses playing polo not only highlights physical strength but also represents a
broader narrative of women's empowerment.
This Rajasthani painting has the potential to broaden our society's mindset by serving as a
historical testament to women's strength and resilience. It challenges stereotypes and
encourages a more inclusive perspective, emphasizing that women have always had the
capability to break barriers and excel in various fields. The painting acts as a visual reminder that
the spirit of empowerment and equality is not a modern concept but has deep roots in India's
cultural heritage. It can inspire contemporary discussions on gender roles and contribute to
fostering a more progressive and inclusive mindset in society.

3.Evaluate the compositional – arrangement of the following artworks from each part, duly based on
the aesthetic-parameters briefly:
• Maru-Ragini (Rajasthani School)

Answer:
"Maru Ragini" by Sahibdin in the Rajasthani School, especially the Mewar sub-school, is a
wonderful artwork with a captivating arrangement. The artist beautifully tells the love story of Prince
Dhola and Princess Maru in the Ragmala Series. The painting has a rhythmic and balanced feel, making it
visually appealing.

The portrayal of Dhola and Maru on a camel in the desert is dynamic, creating a sense of motion and
storytelling. The yellowish desert background and brown shades set the scene, and the dark blue sky adds
a nice contrast.

Including human figures, a camel, and a hound adds balance to the composition. The handwritten details
at the top provide context and enrich the overall beauty. This painting shines in the Ragmala Series,
displaying the artist's skill in capturing both emotions and surroundings, making it a significant piece in
the Mewar sub-school of the Rajasthani School.

4. Identify any one relevant painting of the Rajasthani School included in your course of study
comprising of the following features and explain them in the painting accordingly.

a) In this Paintig episode of Ramayana made between 1740-50 Known as Bharat Milap.
incident is taking place at the jungle of Chitrakuta where Rama stayed for a few days.
(Same as Answer of question- 1)

b) Radha sitting in front of Krishna in the balcony is wearing traditional but decorated ‘Ghagra’
and ‘choli’. They are looking at each other. Rdha’s head is covered with a transparent Odhnis and
she is sitting on arced carpet. In the upper part pavilion painted beautifully.

Answer:

FOR CLASS XII (CBSE) 3

Hasan Art Studio HISTORY OF INDIAN ART (Question Bank) Session 2023-24

The painting "Krishna on Swing" by Nuruddin, housed in the National Museum, is a captivating
representation of the Rajasthani School, specifically illustrating the Rashikapriya poetry of Keshav Das.
The artwork beautifully captures the Krishna Lila, showcasing several distinctive features.
The upper part of the painting portrays Krishna seated on a swing, with Radha in a balcony wearing a
traditional yet adorned 'Ghagra' and 'choli.' The intimate gaze between Radha and Krishna is depicted,
with Radha's head covered by a transparent Odhni, seated on an arced carpet. The intricately painted
pavilion in the upper part adds to the overall aesthetic.
In the lower panel, both Radha and Krishna are shown under a tree, accompanied by an attendant of
Radha, suggesting a message delivery. The meticulous detailing of leaves in repeating patterns and the
background elements like trees and a mound further enhance the composition.
This painting is a remarkable example of the Rajasthani School's emphasis on vibrant depictions of Krishna
Lila, attention to traditional attire, and meticulous detailing in both natural and architectural elements.

Long Answer (Answer to be written in 200 words):

1. Rajasthani school follows a tradition of making straight forward compositions with the
figure/figures highlighted against a flat background.

Identify the names and describe any two such paintings from your syllabus.

Answer:
"Maru Ragini" by Sahibdin in the Rajasthani School, especially the Mewar sub-school, is a
wonderful artwork with a captivating arrangement. The artist beautifully tells the love story of Prince
Dhola and Princess Maru in the Ragmala Series. The painting has a rhythmic and balanced feel, making it
visually appealing.

The portrayal of Dhola and Maru on a camel in the desert is dynamic, creating a sense of motion and
storytelling. The yellowish desert background and brown shades set the scene, and the dark blue sky adds
a nice contrast.

Including human figures, a camel, and a hound adds balance to the composition. The handwritten details
at the top provide context and enrich the overall beauty. This painting shines in the Ragmala Series,
displaying the artist's skill in capturing both emotions and surroundings, making it a significant piece in
the Mewar sub-school of the Rajasthani School.

Dana's painting titled "Chaugan Players" from the Jodhpur sub-school is a significant
representation that highlights women's empowerment and challenges traditional norms in the
early 19th century, especially in a society where men typically dominated. The painting depicts
two princesses actively participating in a game of polo with their attendants, showcasing the
versatility and courage of women breaking away from conventional roles.

FOR CLASS XII (CBSE) 4

Hasan Art Studio HISTORY OF INDIAN ART (Question Bank) Session 2023-24

Dana's portrayal goes beyond just showcasing a sports scene. It symbolizes the bravery of women
actively engaging in activities traditionally considered for men, challenging societal norms. The
image of princesses playing polo not only highlights physical strength but also represents a
broader narrative of women's empowerment.

This Rajasthani painting has the potential to broaden our society's mindset by serving as a
historical testament to women's strength and resilience. It challenges stereotypes and
encourages a more inclusive perspective, emphasizing that women have always had the
capability to break barriers and excel in various fields. The painting acts as a visual reminder that
the spirit of empowerment and equality is not a modern concept but has deep roots in India's
cultural heritage. It can inspire contemporary discussions on gender roles and contribute to
fostering a more progressive and inclusive mindset in society.

2. We see that the artists of miniature school of Rajasthani were skilled in making paintings, which
depicted above 40 figures in one painting and shows story-based composition:
• Identify any one relevant painting from Rajasthani from your course of study comprising
the above characteristics.
• Justify the above statement by describing the painting in your own words.
Answer:
One exemplary painting from the Rajasthani School that aligns with the specified characteristics
is "Bharat meet Rama at Chitrakuta" by Guman, belonging to the Jaipur sub-school. Created between
1740-50 and known as Bharat Milap, this painting vividly captures an episode from the Ramayana,
showcasing the skill of Rajasthani miniature artists in narrative and detailed compositions.

The painting unfolds the episode of Dasaratha's passing, where Bharat, along with three mothers and
courtiers, persuades Rama to return to Ayodhya. Guman masterfully incorporates over 49 labeled figures,
portraying the entire narrative from left to right. The scene is set in the jungles of Chitrakuta, where Rama
stayed, with plain brown huts, dark-colored trees, a river in the foreground, and lotuses. Guman's
storytelling brilliance is evident as he guides the narrative flow, with the group exiting on the right.

This painting serves as a testament to the Rajasthani School's storytelling prowess, demonstrating the
artists' ability to depict complex narratives with numerous characters. The meticulous detailing and
labeling of each character enhance the viewer's understanding of the Ramayana episode. "Bharat meet
Rama at Chitrakuta" stands as a remarkable example of the Rajasthani School's artistic finesse in
portraying stories with a multitude of figures in a harmonious and visually engaging composition.

FOR CLASS XII (CBSE) 5

Hasan Art Studio HISTORY OF INDIAN ART (Question Bank) Session 2023-24

3. Discuss the following points in detail through a critical article on the Rajasthani Miniature
school:
• Origin and Development of Rajasthani Painting School.
• Discuss about two Sub-school of Rajasthani painting
• Salient features of the Rajasthani School.
Answer:

The Rajasthani Miniature School started around the 16th century in Mewar, Rajasthan. It all began
with making small paintings in the Jain Kalpasutra style, mixing local folk arts, Ajanta traditions, and
Gujarat's art. Scholars like Anand Kumar Swami, in the book "Rajput Painting" (1916), said it's different
from Pahari painting. This art evolved from the 16th to the 19th century, reaching its high point in the
18th century.

Two Sub-school of Rajasthani Painting:

Mewar Style: This was one of the early types and stayed true to its roots before Mughal influences. Artists
like Sahibdin and Manohar, along with Jagnath, created amazing art. Some notable works are Sahibdin's
"Ragamala" (1628) and Manohar's "Bal Kanda of Ramayana" (1649). Mewar is known for Pichwais, large
backdrops for Shrinathji's paintings in Nathdwara.

Kishangarh Style: This style peaked under Raja Sawant Singh. Nihal Chand, a great artist, made
masterpieces like "Radha (Bani-Thani)." These paintings had unique features like arched eyebrows, lotus-
petal eyes, and vibrant colors. Kishangarh paintings often showed themes from Geet Govind, Bhagwat
Purana, and Bihari Chandrika.

Key features of Rajasthani Painting:

Mix of Traditions: Rajasthani art mixes local, Ajanta, and Gujarat styles to create a unique look.
Themes: Paintings cover many themes, from religious to everyday life.
Colors: They use warm and bright colors, bringing Indian life to life.
Special Touch: Handmade paper, black and brown outlines, camel and squirrel hair brushes, and
teamwork were common practices.
Differences: Sub-schools like Mewar, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Kishangarh, Jaipur, and Bundi have their own
styles.
In simple words, Rajasthani Miniature School is a beautiful mix of tradition and innovation that tells
captivating stories through art.

FOR CLASS XII (CBSE) 6