Question

What distinguishes miniature paintings from murals in the context of Indian art?

• A. Miniature paintings are large-scale artworks created on temple walls.
• B. Miniature paintings are small, handheld works often illustrating manuscripts and literary texts, known for their intricate details.
• C. Miniature paintings are modern digital illustrations influenced by traditional mural styles.
• D. Miniature paintings are abstract artworks primarily used for decoration in royal courts.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Miniature paintings are small, handheld works often illustrating manuscripts and literary texts, known for their intricate details.

Miniature Paintings Unlike murals, miniature paintings are small in size and meant to be viewed up close, often held in the hand to admire their intricate details. These paintings are distinct from murals and were mostly created as illustrations in manuscripts. They serve as visual representations of poetic verses from epics and various religious, literary, bardic, or musical texts. Manuscript illustrations were carefully designed in thematic series, with each series consisting of several individual paintings.