R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1992

Akbari School of Painting

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The famous painter of Mughal Emperor Akbar was-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Emperor Akbar established a grand royal atelier (studio) where Indian and Persian artists collaborated to create a new, vibrant Mughal style of miniature painting.

Explanation Daswant (or Daswanth) was a leading master in Akbar's court. Originally of humble origins, his talent was recognized by Akbar, who put him under the tutelage of the Persian master Abdus Samad. He played a central role in the illustration of the 'Hamzanama' and the 'Razmnama'.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Daswant is specifically associated with the 'formative' and energetic phase of Mughal art under Akbar.
Logic 2: Abul Hasan and Ustad Mansoor were the stars of the later Jahangir era, known for their realism and nature studies rather than the early Akbari chronicles.

Active Recall

Question

On which major project did Daswant work primarily?

Answer

The Razmnama (Persian translation of the Mahabharata).

Core Insight

Daswant's rise from a commoner to an imperial master illustrates Akbar's policy of promoting talent based on merit rather than social status.