Guler

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Scope note
Refers to a regional school of Pahari miniature painting associated with the small principality of Guler in the eastern Pahari hills. Guler was home to some of the most gifted artist families of the area during the 18th and 19th centuries. The ruling house of Guler served the Mughal empire which certainly affected the development of painting in Guler, since paintings were often exchanged and given as gifts. The family of Pandit Seu (early 18th century) was a celebrated artistic family originating from Guler as were the Dhumun and Purkhu families. Pandi Seu himself may have been responsible for the integration of Pahari intensity with Mughal naturalism and atmospheric effects that became the norm in Guler painting. Later artist families continued to be influenced by Pandit Seu and may have been distantly related to him. Guler artists may have migrated to Chamba and Kangra when their families expanded and there was increased outside patronage.
Guler
Accepted term: 18-Nov-2024