RAS question
The Kishangarh elongated eye style was developed under:
Correct answer: (D) Raja Sawant Singh (Nagari Das).
The Kishangarh style with elongated, almond-shaped eyes developed under Raja Sawant Singh, better known as Nagari Das.
Explanation
The iconic Kishangarh style is linked to Raja Sawant Singh, Nagari Das, and painter Nihal Chand. NCERT supports the core attribution: the Kishangarh school is best known for Bani Thani paintings, a distinct style marked by highly exaggerated features, including long necks, large almond-shaped eyes and long fingers, with subdued colours. NCERT credits the originality of this style to its royal patron, Raja Sawant Singh, better known as Nagari Das. The elongated-eye style is not placed under a Mewar, Amber or Jat ruler; it belongs to the Kishangarh court under Sawant Singh.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Raja Suraj Mal was a Jat ruler, while NCERT attributes the Kishangarh style's originality to Raja Sawant Singh of Kishangarh.
- (B) Raja Man Singh I belongs to Amber, but NCERT discusses Amber-Jaipur separately and credits the Kishangarh style to Raja Sawant Singh, Nagari Das.
- (C) Maharana Kumbha was a Mewar ruler, whereas the long-necked, almond-eyed Kishangarh style is identified with the Kishangarh school and Sawant Singh's patronage.
Concept
Rajasthan miniature painting schools often require matching a visual feature with its patron and court. RAS art-history coverage often distinguishes nearby Rajput schools by style, patronage and signature motifs.