Question

Which of the following is true about the Jodhpur School of Paintings?

• A. It flourished under Maharaja Jaswant Singh in the mid-17th century, focusing on documentary-style paintings such as portraits and court life.
• B. It mainly depicted Buddhist themes and was influenced by Tibetan art.
• C. It emerged in the 19th century after the invention of photography.
• D. It exclusively painted scenes from the Mahabharata.

Answer 1

Answer:

A. It flourished under Maharaja Jaswant Singh in the mid-17th century, focusing on documentary-style paintings such as portraits and court life.

Jodhpur School of Paintings A flourishing phase of painting began under the patronage of Maharaja Jaswant Singh (1638–1678) in the mid-17th century. Around 1640, he encouraged the rise of documentary-style painting, particularly through portraiture and depictions of court life—a tradition that remained influential until the 19th century, when photography gradually replaced painting as a means of recording events. Numerous portraits of Jaswant Singh have survived. His deep devotion to the Vallabha sect and worship of Shrinathji led him to support artwork centered on Krishna, with the Bhagavata Purana serving as a key source of inspiration. The Dhola Maru style of painting is also associated with the Jodhpur school.