Women In Indian Art: An Observation

The trajectory of a woman’s image in Indian Art has been diverse and evolving. During the prehistoric period, she was perceived as the source of life for her procreative ability and her significant support in food-gathering activities and sheltering. At the same time, feminine energy was revered as the goddess of the clan. Over time, the image of women in Indian art varied and came to represent grace, strength, and beauty. Artists explored different facets of womanhood, including sensuality, spirituality, and everyday life. The characterisation of women in Indian art again showed a radical change with the emergence of the feminist approach. They were portrayed with emotional depth, self-awareness, and individuality, sometimes even as archetypes of self-love and admiration. Women in Indian Art: An Observation, is a study of different images of women with the shift in time and perspective.

The Bhimbetka cave paintings are the earliest cave paintings found in central India. The paintings were dominantly geometrical and hence it was challenging to identify the sexes in their drawings.

The Bhimbetka cave paintings are the earliest cave paintings found in central India. The paintings were dominantly geometrical and hence it was challenging to identify the sexes in their drawings. The depiction of women was rare, and the dominant theme revolved around household chores or fertility. Scenes of men often show hunting, gathering, or community activities, reflecting early societal roles. Some paintings show a pregnant woman alongside a pregnant animal. This could also be an attempt to draw a parallel with the divine force of nature that gives us the gift of life, similar to our female counterparts. The image of women in Indian art during the prehistoric period was subtle, and it is believed that one of the reasons could be limited evidence of their direct role as artists.

During the 7th century, the image of women in Indian art had undergone slight changes. The murals of Ajanta and Ellora cave and cave temples were the evidence for it. Women were celebrated for grace and fluidity of form. he sublime sculptures of Ajanta caves draw attention for their intricate detailing. Here again,women figures in the ancient period was as part of storytelling in art. The sublime sculptures of Ajanta caves draw attention and are an amusement for onlookers. Another usage of women figures in the ancient period was as an ornamentation for story narration. They were depicted as supporting characters in male-centered stories.

Then came the Ellora caves, which were built between the 7th -11th century. Herein, the image of women was depicted in sculptures more than paintings. The sculptures mostly represented women as “goddesses” with confident features and expressive gestures. Under the patronage of Buddhism and Jainism manuscripts, the women in Indian art were illustrated with more, if not equal significance to the narration as the central male character. Depictions such as the birth celebrations of Lord Mahavira, or the mother of Lord Buddha, reflect women as active participants in cultural storytelling.

The invasion of the Mughals during the mediaeval period of India and the influence of their narration and perspective brought subtle yet significant changes in the image of women in Indian art.

The Indian Miniature school painting can be traced from the 9th - 10th century in the Buddhist Pala and Jaina period. The art form was used to paint and write manuscripts on palm leaves. However the themes and motive of Miniature painting evolved during the reign of the Mughals.

Heavily influenced by the Persian style, the Mughal's depiction of women was delicate and stylised. Miniatures portrayed women with soft colours, flowing garments, and refined features. The miniature paintings were developed during this era and showed a woman’s participation in leisure, courtly, and nature scenes, moving beyond purely domestic imagery. Romanticism was at its peak and women were shown embracing emotion and intimacy. The sketches of women were more feminine, with soft colours and flared skirts. Love and relationships became key themes.

At the same time, women were depicted against a religious backdrop as well. Tales of Lord Krishna and Radha illustrated “Gopis” smitten in love with the lord. Whereas Radha was shown frolicking in the garden with Lord Krishna. The image was revered as a representation of eternal love and devotion

Post-1850, under the rule of the British Empire, the portrayal of women in Indian art underwent radical changes. Due to colonisation, appreciation towards Western art increased, whereas traditional and indigenous art was facing a considerable downfall. As a result of this, several Indian artists raised their concerns and opinions about safeguarding the art and craft of India. This led to the formation of art schools.

Now the artwork was an amalgamation of Western influence while the figures and motifs were used with an Indian perspective, against the backdrop of Indian sensibilities. Owing to the shift in the political status of India, the artists had larger depictions and new perspectives of women in Indian art.

Women in Indian art during the modern and contemporary periods were illustrated unconventionally. Female artists showed increased participation, which helped change women's narrative in Indian art. The portrayal of women in Indian art has seen its fair share of transformations.

The colours were bright and bold with strong brush strokes, unlike the soft pastel hues of the mediaeval period. It represented strength and the uninhibited spirit of feminine energy. Amrita Sher-Gill was one of the most celebrated Indian female artists who changed the perspective of women in Indian art. Instead of choosing court scenes, goddesses, and renowned personalities, Amrita Sher-Gill depicted ordinary women in her artwork. Self-portraits, portraits of women around as family or friends were extensively illustrated. Her portrayal of women had a unique quality: they were shown as facing adversity, yet possessing the grit to change their destiny. Simple adornments and attire for her female figures enhanced the understanding of Indian identity. In general, this period got rid of the depiction of women in Indian art as a decorative motif, stereotypical gender roles, or as a supporting counterpart. The female figures were the protagonist and narrated their tales of identity.

In conclusion, the portrayal of women in Indian art has seen its fair share of transformations. The reasons could be the state of women in a community, understanding of the feminine energy, or the changes in socio-political status at different times.

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