Difference between mural and miniature painting



Published on 12 Oct 2025

The ancient and medieval phases of Indian history witnessed the rise and growth of both mural and miniature paintings Though the themes of these paintings were similar there were also significant differences between the two styles of painting.

Feature

Mural Painting

Miniature Painting

Size

  • Large-scale paintings, covering walls or ceilings.

  • Small-scale paintings, typically not larger than 25 square inches.

Purpose

  • Decorative or narrative, often in caves or other public spaces.

  • Illustrative, used in manuscripts or as standalone art.

Medium

  • On walls or surfaces

  • On paper, cloth or other portable materials.

Detailing

  • Broad brushstrokes, visible from afar

  • Intricate detailing, requires closer examination.

Themes

  • Largely historical, mythological and cultural themes.

  • Often being court scenes, portraits or literary narratives.

Examples

  • Paintings in Ajanta and Ellora caves

  • Mughal and Rajput miniature paintings.

Tags:
History & Culture

Keywords:
Difference between mural and miniature painting Mural Painting miniature painting Mughal miniature painting Rajput miniature painting Ajanta cave Ellora cave

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 1

Topics:
Art and Architecture

Related Articles

No data found