Question:medium

Which among the following are the characteristics of the Basohli School of Painting?

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To distinguish Basohli from Kangra (the two major Pahari schools), remember: Basohli is bold, intense, and uses hot colours. Kangra is delicate, lyrical, and naturalistic with cooler colours. The use of beetle wings is a unique identifier for Basohli.
Updated On: Jan 16, 2026
  • Indo-persian themes.
  • Delicacy of line and naturalism.
  • Stylized vegetation and the use of beetle wings.
  • Imperial portraits with glorious titles.
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation


Step 1: Concept Comprehension:
The query requires identification of the primary stylistic attributes of the Basohli school, recognized as an early and significant center for Pahari miniature art.

Step 2: Detailed Analysis:
The Basohli style is characterized by its raw energy, robust execution, and profound emotional intensity, differing from the refined naturalism of later Pahari schools like Kangra. Key Basohli painting features include: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Intense, contrasting primary colors (notably mustard yellow, red, and blue).} \\ \bullet & \text{Simplified, flat compositions.} \\ \bullet & \text{Abstracted figures with prominent, wide, almond-shaped eyes and sloping foreheads.} \\ \bullet & \text{A unique method of employing the iridescent wing casings of beetles for depicting emeralds and jewels.} \\ \bullet & \text{Highly stylized representations of flora and architecture.} \\ \end{array}\] A comparison with the given options indicates: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{(A) Indo-Persian themes are predominantly Mughal/Deccani.} \\ \bullet & \text{(B) Refinement and naturalism are hallmarks of the Kangra school, not Basohli.} \\ \bullet & \text{(C) This option accurately reflects two defining aspects of the Basohli style.} \\ \bullet & \text{(D) Grand portraits are characteristic of Mughal art.} \\ \end{array}\]

Step 3: Conclusion:
Stylized flora and the utilization of beetle wings are definitive elements of the Basohli School of Painting.

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