Magnifying the Miniature

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About The Book

India has a long history of exquisite miniature painting, with many varied styles emerging from different regions. Magnifying the Miniature aims to bring these paintings out of museums and into the home! This beautiful colouring book introduces younger artists to the delights of Indian miniatures by providing hand-drawn examples of several iconic paintings. Join author and artist Madhu Vottery on an exciting journey through India to discover this wonderful art form!

About the Author

Madhu Vottery is a practising conservation architect based in Hyderabad, India. She has received awards from the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Board and the State Level Monitoring Committee for her involvement in the Heritage Walks of Hyderabad. She was also recently felicitated by the REACH Foundation's Heritage Award 2019 for her role in creating awareness about the heritage and culture of Telangana.

Introduction

WHAT ARE MINIATURE PAINTINGS?

As per Asian traditions, miniature paintings, which were very illustrative in nature, originated in the decoration of manuscripts. Also developed into small, single-sheet illustrations to be kept in albums, these paintings flourished in the times of political stability with the interest of patrons. Traditional Indian miniature painting began around the 10th century and was at its peak during the Mughal period. It deteriorated in the middle of the 18th century. However, in some regions this art continued till the 19th century. Patronised by the British in some regions, it was called "Company painting."

Miniature paintings are generally very colourful and describe the culture of the period they were drawn in. The skin colour of Lord Krishna and Rama is blue. The colour of human hair and eyes is black, and people are shown wearing traditional Indian dress, headgear, jewellery and footwear. Historic landscape like trees, rivers, flowers, birds, animals, as well as the land and sky are done in great detail. Traditional houses, furniture, pavilions and fountains have been painted, too. Court scenes were often painted to commemorate a historic event.

Book's Contents and Sample Pages