Question

Observe all the miniature paintings featured here. What are the differences you notice? What are the features that have changed, and which have been retained?

Answer 1

• Differences: The miniature paintings differ in their themes, colours, costumes, backgrounds, and styles. Some paintings focus on religious stories and mythology, while others show court life, hunting, battles, portraits, and daily activities. Some are more stylised and colourful, while others are more realistic and naturalistic, with shading and perspective.
• Features that changed: The subjects, painting techniques, use of perspective, costumes, and depiction of people and nature changed with time and region. Mughal paintings, for example, showed greater realism and naturalism.
• Features retained: The use of bright colours, fine brushwork, intricate details, decorative patterns, and traditional Indian motifs such as flowers, trees, and animals remained common.