Ajanta murals, Jain painting, Vijayanagara
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UPSC Prelims frequently tests identification of painting schools, techniques, and patronage patterns. Questions focus on dating (2nd century BCE–5th century CE for Ajanta), religious themes, and distinguishing characteristics. Common traps: confusing Ajanta with Ellora, mixing Jain painting styles with Buddhist iconography, or misattributing Vijayanagara art to Mughal influence. Expect map-based or image-based recall questions.
Ajanta: Buddhist murals, 2nd BCE to 5th CE, rock-cut caves
Jain painting: geometric precision, gold leaf, manuscript tradition
Vijayanagara: temple wall paintings, Dravidian iconography, 15th–17th century
Ajanta technique: natural pigments, fresco buono, narrative panels
Jain miniatures: flat perspective, bold outlines, ascetic themes