Garhwal

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Scope note
Refers to a regional school of Pahari miniature painting associated with Garhwal in the extreme southeast of the Punjab Hills; the Garhwal school flourished from the second half of the 18th to the late 19th century, particularly in its capital city of Srinagar. While the school was not prolific, it made a large contribution to Pahari painting. Characteristic elements include vigorous line, precise drawing, brilliant color, expressive figures, strong compositions, and luxuriant and atmospheric landscapes. The influence of Guler painting is heavily debated as there are a number of stylistic similarities between the two schools. Painters from Guler probably settled in Garhwal and artists from Garhwal may have traveled to other painting centers for apprenticeship as well. Garhwal retained its individuality, however. The Shaivite crescent-shaped marks on foreheads are commonly and consistently found on figures in Garhwal paintings while they are not usually seen in other Pahari painting. Other distinguishing features include pairs of tigers, leopards and birds; lotus ponds; and flowers with pointed ends. Painting activity gradually declined in the 19th century as Garhwal was affected by foreign invasion and earthquake.
Garhwal
Accepted term: 18-Nov-2024