[Solved] Bani Thani Painting: Kishangarh School of Art | UPSC

The well-known painting 'Bani Thani' belongs to the

[UPSC CSE Pre 2018]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Rajasthani miniature painting is divided into several regional schools, with Kishangarh standing out for its lyrical and idealized depiction of human beauty.

Authentic Source Evidence

'Bani Thani' was painted by the artist Nihal Chand under the patronage of Raja Sawant Singh of Kishangarh. The style is characterized by elongated features, almond-shaped eyes, and a highly graceful, almost ethereal representation of womanhood.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Kishangarh school is specifically famous for the Bani Thani portrait, often called the 'Mona Lisa of India'.

Logic 2: Other schools like Bundi or Jaipur have distinct themes (hunting, court scenes) but do not share the unique facial stylization found in Kishangarh's Bani Thani.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Who was the inspiration for the 'Bani Thani' painting?"

She was a singer and poetess in the court of Raja Sawant Singh, later idealized as Radha in Kishangarh art.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Bani Thani represents the peak of romanticism in Indian miniature art, blending courtly elegance with devotional symbolism."

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