Basholi Paintings

About Basholi Paintings:

• Basholi paintings originated in the Basholi region of Jammu and Kashmir.
• It is a reputed school of miniature paintings known for its vivid, evocative colours, bold lines, and deep-set facial patterns. 
• It is considered the first school of Pahari paintings
• Patronage: The Basholi painting style flourished during the 17th and 18th centuries under the patronage of local rulers and wealthy merchants.
• Features of the Bisholi painting
  • It has peculiar characteristics, they have perfect geometrical patterns, bright colours and glossy enamel.
  • Colours used: Ochre yellow, brown, and green grounds predominating.
  • The figures in the paintings are shown clad in rich costumes, stylised faces and large bulging eyes lent unique individuality to these paintings.
  • Themes: The portraits of local rulers, Radha-Krishna, and Madhava-Malati love themes and themes from the Bhagavata Purana.
  • These are painted on paper, cloth, or wood using natural pigments and dyes.

What is a Geographical Indication Tag?

• A Geographical Indication is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
• Geographical indications are typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts and industrial products.
• The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.
• This GI tag is valid for a period of 10 years following which it can be renewed.

Q1) What is Pahari painting?

Pahari painting is a style of miniature painting and book illustration that developed in the independent states of the Himalayan foothills in India. The style is made up of two markedly contrasting schools, the bold intense Basohli and the delicate and lyrical Kangra.

Source: Kathua’s ‘Basohli Painting’ gets GI tag

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