Deccani painting, a vibrant and distinctive school of Indian art, originated in the Deccan plateau region of South India during the 16th to 19th centuries. It is characterized by a rich fusion of diverse cultural influences, including Persian, Mughal, and indigenous traditions, resulting in a unique and eclectic artistic style. Deccani painting is best known for its intricate and detailed miniature paintings, which often feature vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and intricate depictions of royal courts, landscapes, and mythological scenes. The art form flourished in various Deccan kingdoms, including Golconda, Bijapur, and Ahmadnagar, each contributing its unique flavor to the overall style.
One of the most notable aspects of Deccani’s painting is its keen attention to detail and the use of vivid and bold colors, which set it apart from the more subdued Mughal style. The artists often employed gold and silver leaf, creating a luminous effect in their works. Deccani paintings are also known for their depictions of regional culture and religious diversity, showcasing scenes from Hindu, Islamic, and Persian traditions. The blend of these influences makes Deccani painting a testament to the rich and diverse cultural tapestry of the Deccan plateau and an important chapter in the history of Indian art.
Sub-schools in the Deccani school of painting
Ahmednagar
- The earliest examples of the Ahmednagar painting are contained in a volume of poems written in praise of Hussain Nizam Shah I of Ahmednagar (1553-1565) and his queen.
- This manuscript known as the ‘Tarif-in-Hussain Shahiand assigned to a period 1565-69 is preserved in the Bharat ltihas Samshodaka Mandala, Poona.
- Some other fine examples of the Ahmednagar painting are the “Hindola Raga” of about 1590 A.D. and portraits of Burhan Nizam Shah II of Ahmednagar (1591-96 A.D.) and of Malik Amber of about 1605 A.D. existing in the National Museum, New Delhi and other museums.
Bijapur
- In Bijapur, the painting was patronized by Ali Adil Shah I and his successor Ibrahim II.
- An encyclopedia known as the Najum-al-Tulum (Stars of Sciences), preserved in the Chester Beatty Library, Dublin, was illustrated in 1570 A.D. in the reign of Ali Adil Shah I. This manuscript contains 876 miniatures.
- The ladies appearing in the illustrations are tall and slender and are wearing the South Indian dress.
- The rich color scheme, the palm trees, animals, and men and women all belong, to the Deccani tradition. The profuse use of gold color, some flowering plants, and arabesques on the top of the throne are derived from the Persian tradition.
Golconda
- The British Museum in London houses a group of five charming paintings, believed to be the earliest identified Golconda work, dating back to about 1590 A.D. during the reign of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah (1580-1611) of Golconda.
- These paintings portray dancing girls entertaining their company.
- Another noteworthy example of Golconda’s painting is the “Lady with the Myna bird” created around 1605 A.D.
- This style of painting incorporates influences from the pre-Mughal northern tradition, which flourished in Malwa, and the Vijayanagar murals of the southern tradition, as reflected in the portrayal of female figures and attire. There is also an evident influence of Persian painting in the depiction of the golden sky and landscape on the horizon. The use of vibrant colors distinguishes it from northern painting.
Hyderabad
- The origin of painting in Hyderabad dates back to the establishment of the Asafjhi dynasty by Mir Qamruddin Khan.
- The painting style is predominantly decorative.
- The miniature from the third quarter of the 18th century exhibits typical characteristics of Hyderabad painting, including rich colors and the use of Deccani facial types and costumes.
Tanjore
- During the late 18th and 19th centuries, a distinct style of painting characterized by bold drawing, shading techniques, and the use of pure and brilliant colors thrived in Tanjore, South India.
- The dense composition, surface richness, and vibrant colors of Thanjavur Paintings distinguish them from other painting styles.
- These paintings also feature embellishments such as semi-precious stones, pearls, and glass pieces that add to their appeal, and their relief work gives them a three-dimensional effect. The origin of Tanjore Painting can be traced back to the 16th century.
- Indian Thanjavur Paintings were patronized by Maratha princes, Nayakas, Rajus communities of Tanjore and Trichi, and Naidus of Madurai from the 16th to the 18th century.
- The majority of these paintings depict Hindu Gods and Goddesses, along with saints, as their main subjects.
- The main figure in a Thanjavur Painting is always placed at the center of the painting. Because these paintings are primarily executed on solid wood planks, they are colloquially known as ‘Palagai Padam’ (palagai meaning wooden plank and padam meaning picture) in the local language.
FAQs on Deccani Painting
Q: What is the historical significance of Deccani paintings?
A: Deccani paintings hold historical significance as they represent a unique blend of cultural influences in the Deccan region of South India during the 16th to 19th centuries. They provide valuable insights into the art, culture, and society of the Deccan kingdoms, showcasing a rich amalgamation of Persian, Mughal, and indigenous artistic traditions.
Q: What are the key characteristics of Deccani paintings?
A: Deccani paintings are known for their intricate details, vibrant colors, and the use of gold and silver leaf. They often depict royal courts, landscapes, and religious or mythological scenes. The bold and vivid color palette, as well as the attention to regional culture, set them apart from other Indian painting traditions.
Q: Who were the prominent artists and patrons of Deccani paintings?
A: Deccani painting flourished under the patronage of various Deccan kingdoms, including Golconda, Bijapur, and Ahmadnagar. While many artists from these regions contributed to this art form, specific names are not as well-documented as in the Mughal or Rajput traditions.
Q: What is the subject matter of Deccani paintings?
A: Deccani paintings cover a wide range of subjects, including courtly scenes, romantic narratives, hunting scenes, and religious themes. They often depict stories from Hindu, Islamic, and Persian literature, reflecting the region’s diverse religious and cultural influences.
Q: How does Deccani painting differ from other Indian painting styles?
A: Deccani paintings distinguish themselves from other Indian painting styles, such as Mughal or Rajput, through their distinctive use of color, intricate patterns, and regional cultural elements. They have a unique regional identity that reflects the Deccan’s rich historical and cultural context, setting them apart from the more widely known painting traditions of India.
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