Miniature- as the term suggests, is a small and detailed deception of a subject. In the world of art, the name miniature brings to mind a magical world, filled with tiny details, lively visuals, and engaging stories, all in such a limited space that it offers an amazing and unforgettable experience to anyone who witnesses the art.
Associated with the royalty, miniatures in Indian history saw their peak under the Mughals, whose presence and artistic interest inspired the artists working in their workshops to experiment with themes, colors, and techniques, resulting in a distinct art form that is prized to date as an expression of royalty and refinement.
Much has been said on the topic of Indian miniature, however, the charm of this art form is such, that it is not interesting to take a look at the history, techniques, and themes of these splendid pieces of art.
Deepak Raga (Kangra Painting)
The origins of Indian miniature paintings can be traced back to the ancient period where moral tales and anecdotes of history were drawn on leaves and small pieces of dried palm and traveling merchants and monks took the images with them on the journey, and showed it to anyone interested in a good story.
A major development can be traced to early medieval and medieval Western India, in Gujarat and Rajasthan, where religious presence- the sect of Jainism, became the umbrella under which a vast range of manuscript paintings developed.
These paintings were usually dedicated to spiritual and religious themes of Jainism and the use of lovely colors and rich elements such as gold leaf gave them a unique style. The Jain manuscript paintings still remain a lesser explored aspect of Indian miniatures, where a vast range of subjects and learned skills of the painters can be seen giving the simple manuscripts a spellbinding appeal.
The Mughal period, from the 16th to 19th century is a phase of cultural intermingling and growth of miniature as a form of art connected directly to the kings, queens, and nobles. Influenced by Persian art, Mughal miniatures combined Indian and Islamic subjects, resulting in a style that became popular while remaining a symbol of eliteness.
The Mughal artists learned from their surroundings as well as from the global world of art, leading them to spearhead a style that is special and continues to charm the true lover of art. Beyond the Mughal court, regional styles of miniature painting developed across India in what came to be known as Rajput kingdoms.
Collectively known as the Rajput miniatures, the Kangra, Pahari, Mandi, Basholi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Mewar, and the lesser-known but distinctive Raghogarh paintings are worthy of individual attention, each gaining worldwide popularity among art enthusiasts and collectors who see these miniatures as artistic gems.
Indian miniature paintings hold immense significance as a cultural and historical treasure. Since they were growing up in the royal court, most of their themes included court scenes, the lives of the royals, and various episodes from history that the kings considered to be important.
For the modern onlooker, these small paintings become a perfect point of view, to see, understand and appreciate the vision of the medieval artists and their patrons. The blend of colors, themes, and techniques that Indian miniatures carry is probably unseconded.
Drawing from different traditions not only in terms of religion and culture but also in terms of geographical regions, Indian miniatures created their own artistic worlds, where inspirations from a vast range of sources came together, forming something truly unique.
Religion and secular mixed in these canvases, kings, and queens were transformed into legendary images and gods and goddesses became visible to the world- the mastery of the artist could be seen in these miniature realms.
Indian miniature paintings were painted on different surfaces, including paper, ivory, and cloth as per the demand of the patron. The artists used a long process involving many techniques. First, the surface was cleaned and given a smoothed texture so that the fine brush (sometimes as thin as a single hair) could smoothly glide over it.
The outlines of the theme were then drawn using a fine brush, followed by the painting of colors. Artists used a limited number of natural colors, which were ground and mixed with water or gum to find a shade that suited the vision of the painter.
The colors were applied in thin layers, making the painting appear detailed, over which gold and silver was applied at different places, either as foil or liquified, to give the miniature their distinct “illuminated” look.
The brushes of Indian miniatures deserve a separate discussion, which were custom-made since the medieval period according to the need of the painter. Different animal hair led to different thickness and texture, making the process of obtaining the perfect brush a crucial step.
Following are the important steps and techniques learned by the master miniature artists-
The themes of the miniature are generally inspired by paintings commissioned centuries ago by Indian Emperors. Initially, the sketch is prepared by the artist on a smooth surface of a paper in light blue or reddish-brown ink.
This primary sketch is drawn in soft lines suggesting only the outlines of the figures. These are later corrected and bold, accurate, hard lines are drawn. A thin coat of white pigment is applied to obliterate the incorrect lines.
Once the master sketch is drawn, it is copied or pounced (traced). Traditionally tracing was done with a piece of transparent deer skin which was placed on top of the drawing, the outlines of which were then pierced.
The deer skin has since been replaced by tracing paper. The stencil thus prepared, it is then placed over a fresh paper and black pigment is passed through the pinholes leaving soft outlines which are later reinforced by brush.
The pigment are first blended and laid flat on the paper. No consideration is made of tonality, instead contrasting colors are used. Tendency to represent the minutest details, principles of maximum visibility and love for ornamentation were possible only when the colors are laid flat.
The floors, carpets, arms and armour, utensils etc., are depicted with profuse embellishment. The draperies however are left comparatively plain. The three dimensional effect is achieved by two methods of shading : the original color is spread on the surface, then darker colors are applied ; or the shading pigment is gradually mixed with the original pigment while still wet.
The ground colors are not necessarily light but are lighter than those to be applied in subsequent fillings. Human figures are painted first, animal figures next, and the background is colored last of all. After coloring and shading, the outlines of the object, as delineated in the primary sketch, are reconfirmed by a darker tone and the figures given a well finished form.
Gold highlights are the last step before burnishing. The burnishing process involves laying the miniature face down on a hard, smooth surface and gently and firmly stroking it with a polished piece of agate stone. Burnishing provides protective hardenin
🌀Mughal Miniatures : They are the most widely known part of Indian miniatures. As the jewel that shines brightest, Mughal miniatures grew from the court and have now reached the popular sphere due to the richness of their themes that expand from court scenes to jungle hunt episodes, from Islamic themes to Hindu sacred stories, each depicted with devotion and naturalism.
🌀Rajasthani Miniatures : Characterized by vibrant colors, dynamic compositions, and a strong emphasis on the human form, Rajasthani miniatures often portrayed mythological and religious themes, as well as scenes of courtly life. The sacred literature of India as well as the lyrical poetry of Sanskrit and regional languages were utilized as the inspiration for Rajasthani miniatures, making them an unparalleled art form.
🌀Pahari Miniatures : Originating from the Himalayan region, Pahari miniatures are known for their lyrical beauty and spiritual depth. They frequently depicted Vaishnava themes, with a focus on the divine love between Radha and Krishna and the Puranas, poetry, and literature of the region and India.
🌀Deccani Miniatures : Influenced by Persian and Mughal styles, Deccani miniatures developed a distinct character with their use of bold colors, intricate patterns, and a preference for architectural motifs that are rooted in the local and folk tradition of Deccan.
Wrapping Up
Indian miniatures for art lovers are a world of wonder. The marvelous ability of the artist to focus and fill every inch of a small canvas with perfect details, and then fill those details with illuminating colors, bringing fabled lands and stories to life, is what makes these paintings shine bright, as a rare gem in the treasure of Indian art.
Exotic India Art has dedicated a special space to a vast collection of Indian miniature paintings, handpicked from the home of artists who are generational painters and have learned from masters and family members who were working in the workshops of medieval kings. Every folio is a symbol of Indian culture and art, this collection is a charming place to be, explore, and get your next piece of art from.
Your email address will not be published *
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist