Chamba (Pahari)
Hierarchy classification:
Anotations
Scope note:
Refers to a regional school of Pahari miniature painting associated with the large Chamba state of the Punjab Hills. Chamba's cultural heritage is well-preserved due to the state's sheltered location. The presence of outside artists is felt throughout the history of Chamba painting. Paintings of the second half of the 17th century are naturalistic with a preference for pale colors, a distinctive rendering of hands, and characteristic slim wrists. In the 17th century, elements of Basohli painting are incorporated into Chamba painting with richer, warmer colors and more stylized and decorative depictions of trees. While some Chamba painting became increasingly influenced by the Basohli school in the early 18th century, other contemporary paintings are done in much more indigenous style. The presence of artists from Jammu is also felt in the early 18th century, most noticeably in the rectangular and squarish facial types. Other influences came from Mughal and Guler painting. The especially influential Guler artists arrived in Chamba circa 1770, bringing with them their poetic and expressive style as well as a preference for romantic subject matter. Painting continued in later centuries, but was more fractured in style.