Which one of the following was NOT a feature of the art of painting in India in the 19th century?

CAPF 2022

A. Art was being produced for the open market.
B. The artist (Shilpi) became distinct from the artisan (Karigar).
C. The technique of oil painting was developed.
D. The distinction between elite and popular art widened.

Answer: Art was being produced for the open market.

Option a is the correct answer. Option a is incorrect- in the 19th century, art was not produced for the open market. During this period, the art of painting in India was often patronized by the royal courts, nobility, and wealthy individuals. Artists were commissioned to create artworks for these patrons, and the focus was on producing art for specific patrons rather than for the open market. Option b is correct- The artist (Shilpi) became distinct from the artisan (Karigar). This was a gradual process that began in the early 19th century. As art became more professionalized, artists began to receive formal training and to develop their own unique styles. Option c is correct- Oil painting was introduced to India by the British in the 18th century. It quickly became popular among Indian artists, who found that it allowed them to create more realistic and detailed paintings. Thomas Daniell and his nephew, William Daniell, were the most renowned artists who worked in this particular artistic tradition. Option d is correct- The distinction between elite and popular art widened. This was a result of the increasing commercialization of art. As art became more accessible to the middle class, it also became more diverse. There was a growing demand for both traditional and modern art, and this led to the development of a wider range of artistic styles. Important Tips Some of the famous proponents of the art of painting in India in the 19th century include: Raja Ravi Varma: Varma was a master of the Indian miniature painting tradition. He is known for his paintings of Hindu gods and goddesses, as well as his portraits of Indian royalty and other notable figures. Abanindranath Tagore: Tagore was a pioneer of the Bengal School of Art. He was influenced by both Indian and Western art traditions, and his paintings often depict scenes from Indian mythology and folklore. Rajanikanta Gupta: Gupta was a leading figure in the Patna School of Art. He is known for his paintings of everyday life in rural India. Amrita Sher-Gil: Sher-Gil was a unique artist who combined Indian and European art styles. Her paintings often depict scenes of Indian life with a Western sensibility.

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