Miniature Paintings

Miniature paintings from Rajasthan have been in vogue since the 16th century when the artists were patronized by the Mughal court. These jewel like paintings, replete with incredible details have been prized possessions. Several schools of paintings emerged from different princely states of Rajasthan – Mewar, Marwar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bundi, Bikaner, Kota, Kishangarh,.

It all began with the idea of illustrating the ancient manuscripts, especially the palm leaf inscriptions but gradually the court events came to be recorded and it took different hues.

Marwar was one of the largest school and it celebrated its strong show of colours.

The Jaipuri style was inspired by Emperor Jehangir’s court and it incorporated a wider range of subjects that varied from religious to secular. It envisages round face and wide eyes, particularly in large size paintings of gods and kings.

The Jodhpuri style features prominent eyelashes while the Bikaneri school is noted for its luxurious details amidst subdued colours, like the Mughal miniatures..

Kishangarh excels in perfection of its figures. Radha or Bani Thani is usually the principal character with a most expressive face, notably the fish shaped eyes.

Kota and Bundi miniatures usually depict hunt and battle scenes with a well composed background of over caste skies or green fields or forests. Feminine grace is depicted with great delicacy.