Deccan School Of Miniature Painting

The painting referred to in the question is a representation of two prominent Sufi figures, which is a notable characteristic of the Hyderabad School, a sub-style of the Deccan School of Indian miniature painting.
Hyderabad School developed under the patronage of the Nizams during the 18th century. It was strongly influenced by Persian styles and Mughal art, but it maintained its own unique themes, particularly in the depiction of Islamic saints, Sufi mystics, and courtly scenes.

• The use of subtle colouring, elongated facial features, and stylized architecture are common in Hyderabad paintings.
• Spiritual themes, especially Sufi imagery, were frequently depicted, showing the influence of Islamic culture in the region.
• These works often focused on emotions, devotion, and mysticism, as seen in portraits of revered Sufi saints.

Explanation of Other Options:

• (A) Golconda: Also part of the Deccan school but more known for Hindu mythological themes and use of rich colours.
• (C) Ahmad Nagar: An earlier style in the Deccan known for Persian influence, but less prominent in Sufi depictions.
• (D) Kangra: Belongs to the Pahari School in North India; focuses on Krishna-Radha themes, not Deccan or Islamic art.

The assertion is correct. The painting “Chand Bibi Playing Polo” indeed depicts royal women engaged in the sport of polo, elegantly mounted on vividly decorated horses. This scene is a fine example of Indo-Islamic courtly culture and feminine valor. However, the reason provided is incorrect. The painting is not done in oil on canvas; instead, it is a miniature painting executed using natural pigments and colours on surfaces like paper or cloth. Traditional Indian miniature paintings did not use oil paints—rather, they relied on fine brushes and water-based colours made from minerals, plants, and precious stones.

• The brilliance of colour in such works is due to the refined use of natural pigments, not oil paints.
• The artwork belongs to the Deccan or Mughal miniature style, where detailing and colour layering were key techniques.

Explanation of Options:

• (A) Incorrect — (R) is factually wrong.
• (B) Incorrect — Though both statements are not fully true, they are not logically linked.
• (C) Correct — Assertion is true; Reason is false.
• (D) Incorrect — Assertion is true, not false.