Photo essay of the beautiful Bundi frescoes

Some of Rajasthan’s finest miniature and mural paintings were produced around Bundi and Kota. These two towns of Rajasthan were at that time ruled by the Hada Rajputs who were keen artistic patrons. The Bundi school of miniature paintings or the Bundi frescoes had an unusual combination. Its dominant features of folk painting – intense colour and bold forms – blended exquisitely with the Mughal’s eye for details and preference of naturalism. This school has developed and evolved over the centuries and each political change has influenced its style. Bundi frescoes are marked by backgrounds of thick foliage, cloudy skies, and scenes lit by the setting sun. Architecture especially of palaces is depicted in loving detail. The willowy women sport round faces, large petal-shaped eyes, and small noses. Their costumes change over the centuries thus telling us of the changing allegiance of the Bundi rulers and the characters are usually always beautifully attired. The details of the garments are exquisite with some showing patterns of local tye and die prints. The veils and the skirts are always diaphanous and the mythological scenes are painted with as many characters as possible. The Bundi frescoes are notable for their use of blue hues, with a palette of turquoise and azure unlike anything seen elsewhere. Bundi Palace houses some of the most beautiful examples of Bundi frescoes. Check out the previous post to learn a bit more about this miniature style. Presenting a photo essay of some of the loveliest Bundi frescoes. Enjoy!!