Question

Which of the following is a well-known example of illustrated manuscript painting from the Pala period?

• A. Astasahasrika Prajnaparamita
• B. Bani Thani
• C. Hamzanama
• D. Ragamala series

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Astasahasrika Prajnaparamita

Paintings of Pala Period The earliest examples of miniature painting in India are found in the illustrated religious texts of Vajrayana Buddhism, created during the Pala dynasty. Numerous palm-leaf manuscripts depicting Buddhist themes were both written and adorned with images of Buddhist deities, alongside active workshops producing bronze sculptures. These paintings are characterized by graceful, flowing lines and muted color tones. The style is naturalistic, echoing the idealized forms seen in contemporary bronze and stone sculptures, and drawing clear inspiration from the classical art of Ajanta. A notable example of this tradition is the Astasahasrika Prajnaparamita (Perfection of Wisdom).