Published on 12 Oct 2025
The modern school of painting flourished in India due to the presence of many talented painters. These artists were well known for their distinct styles and differed in the themes they explored as well as the techniques they employed.
Raja Ravi Varma
Raja Ravi Varma was a renowned Indian painter who is often referred to as the father of modern Indian art. His paintings were characterized by distinct features that merged Indian artistic traditions with European academic techniques. Some notable features of his paintings include
Realistic portrayal: Ravi Varma's paintings were known for their realistic depiction of subjects, emphasizing facial expressions, anatomy, and fine details.
Example: The painting of Shakuntala gives great attention to realistic facial features, ornate clothing and intricate jewellery.
Fusion of Indian and European style: Ravi Varma's work demonstrated a successful fusion of Indian themes and European academic painting techniques, creating a distinct artistic style.
Example: The Hamsa Damayanti painting showcases the blending of European techniques on Indian themes.
Use of light and shade: Ravi Varma skillfully employed the technique of chiaroscuro, the contrast of light and shade, to add depth and three-dimensionality to his compositions.
Example: The painting of Damayanti and Swan is an excellent example of the use of shade and light to create a dramatic effect.
Mythological and Historical Subjects: The paintings often depicted scenes from Hindu mythology, Indian literature, and historical events, contributing to the revival and popularization of these themes.
Example: The painting of the Maharashtrian Lady symbolizes the celebration of regional culture and identity.
Clothing and Textiles: Ravi Varma paid meticulous attention to the detailing of clothing and textiles, often incorporating richly decorated fabrics and patterns.
Example: The painting of A Lady Holding a Fruit exemplifies his focus on textile detailing.
Emotional expressions: The paintings conveyed a wide range of emotions through the subtle portrayal of facial expressions and gestures.
Example: The painting of the Galaxy of Musicians has characters with unique facial expressions better conveying the mood of the scene.
Abinindranath Tagore
Abanindranath Tagore, a prominent Indian artist, was one of the key figures in the Bengal School of Painting who focused on reviving and promoting traditional Indian art forms and aesthetics through his paintings. Some features of his paintings include
Indigenization of art: Tagore emphasized on creating an indigenous art movement that incorporated elements of Indian culture, spirituality and mythology.
Example: The painting of Bharat Mata which depicts India as a nurturing and powerful mother.
Use of symbolism and allegory: The use of religious symbols and metaphors to evoke emotions was part of Tagore’s paintings.
Example: Painting of The Passing of Shah Jahan uses symbols to bring more spiritual essence to the work.
Soft Colour Palette: The colour palette was typically soft and muted, with a preference for earthy tones and pastel shades, creating a subtle and serene atmosphere.
Example: The Krishna lal series painting uses soft colours which enhances the lyrical and ethereal quality of the composition.
Integration of Text and Image: The use of calligraphic or poetic verses within the paintings aided in blurring the boundaries between visual art and literature.
Example: The painting of The Forest and the Field gives an interplay of text and image.
Emphasis on Mood and Atmosphere: Tagore utilized the interplay of light and shadow to create a sense of drama or tranquillity.
Example: The banished yaksha painting uses light and shadow to set the mood.
These two represent the major proponents of modern Indian art. Though both their styles vary in many respects the contributions from both these artists have been significant for Indian art.
History & Culture
Personalities associated with painting
modern school of painting
Raja Ravi Varma
father of modern Indian art
painting of Shakuntala
Hamsa Damayanti painting
chiaroscuro
painting of the Maharashtrian Lady
A Lady Holding a Fruit
painting of the Galaxy of Musicians
Abinindranath Tagore
company school
company style
Begal school
Bharat Mata
Painting of The Passing of Shah Jahan
The Krishna lal series painting
The painting of The Forest and the Field
The banished yaksha painting
modern Indian art
modern painting
General Studies Paper 1
Indian Heritage and Culture
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