The well-known painting “Bani Thani” belongs to the
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2018 Prelims]
(a) Bundi school
(b) Jaipur school
(c) Kangra school
(d) Kishangarh school
Answer: (d)
Explanation:
- Bani Thani is an Indian miniature painting created by Nihal Chand from the Marwar school of Kishangarh. The artwork portrays a woman exuding elegance and grace.
- The central figure, Bani Thani, was a renowned singer and poet who lived during the reign of King Sawant Singh (1748–1764) in Kishangarh.
- Inspired by Radha, the beloved of Lord Krishna, Bani Thani’s depiction showcases idealized features, including arched eyebrows, elongated lotus-like eyes, and a pointed chin.
- The prominence of this painting is evident as it was featured on an Indian stamp issued on 5th May 1973, highlighting its cultural significance.
- The Kishangarh school of art, to which this painting belongs, is renowned for its distinctive elongated style, characterized by arched eyebrows, elongated eyes resembling lotus petals, and a pointed chin, reminiscent of the artistic style seen in Indian sculpture.
- The art of Kishangarh shows influences from Bundi painting, incorporating lush vegetation, dramatic night skies, vivid movement, as well as elements of Mughal painting, particularly visible in its use of side-profile portraits.
Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.
