Question

Which among the following are the characteristics of the Basohli School of Painting?

• A. Indo-persian themes.
• B. Delicacy of line and naturalism.
• C. Stylized vegetation and the use of beetle wings.
• D. Imperial portraits with glorious titles.

Hint:

To distinguish Basohli from Kangra (the two major Pahari schools), remember: Basohli is bold, intense, and uses hot colours. Kangra is delicate, lyrical, and naturalistic with cooler colours. The use of beetle wings is a unique identifier for Basohli.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the key stylistic features of the Basohli school, which is an early and important centre of Pahari miniature painting.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Basohli style is known for its primitive vigour, bold execution, and intense emotional expression. It is distinct from the delicate and naturalistic style of later Pahari schools like Kangra. Key characteristics of Basohli painting include: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{The use of strong, hot, and contrasting primary colours (especially mustard yellow, red, and blue).} \\ \bullet & \text{Simple, two-dimensional compositions.} \\ \bullet & \text{Stylized figures with large, expressive, almond-shaped eyes and receding foreheads.} \\ \bullet & \text{A unique and famous technique of using the shiny, iridescent wing-casings of beetles to depict emeralds and jewels in ornaments.} \\ \bullet & \text{Depiction of highly stylized vegetation and architectural forms.} \\ \end{array}\] Comparing this to the options: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{(A) Indo-persian themes are more Mughal/Deccani.} \\ \bullet & \text{(B) Delicacy and naturalism are characteristic of the Kangra school, not Basohli.} \\ \bullet & \text{(C) This option perfectly describes two of the most distinctive features of the Basohli style.} \\ \bullet & \text{(D) Imperial portraits are a Mughal specialty.} \\ \end{array}\]

Step 3: Final Answer:
Stylized vegetation and the use of beetle wings are defining characteristics of the Basohli School of Painting.