As the capital of Rajasthan, the erstwhile Rajputana, Jaipur evokes memories of Rajput chivalry, and legendary romance. And it unmistakably represents the beautiful in art and the magnificent in architecture -- leave alone its fabulous cultural traditions. The School of Painting that has thrived here for over 150 years since Jai Singh''s time (AD 1699-1743), covers a whole diversity of themes; both sacred and secular, evolving a veritable panorama of contemporary life and culture. And yet collectively, notwithstanding their exposure to the earlier character of Mughal art, Jaipur miniatures are steeped in tradition -- drawing inspiration from Indian mythology, epical/classical literature, and folklore.

For the first time, Dr. Rita Pratap offers an exclusive study of the Jaipur School of Miniature Paintings, in all its different articulations -- with focus, among other aspects, on its linkages with other forms of creative expression: literature, music, sculpture, dance. For her meticulous analysis she has drawn on the miniatures from private collection and museums around the world.

Besides including bibliographic reference and a glossary of non-English words, the book is embellished with representative specimens of Jaipur miniature paintings, exquisite figures and photographic reproductions in colour.

Dr. Rita Pratap, is a freelance art critic and reputed painter, who today figures among the ten leading contemporary women artists of Rajasthan. A member of several art organizations, she has published a number of research studies, besides art reviews in Rajasthan''s newspapers. And some of her canvases have won awards and honours -- at exhibitions: local, national and international.

Currently Assistant Professor of Drawing and Painting at the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Dr. Pratap has presented, analytical insights in her studies of the paintings and Wall paintings of Jaipur.

Partial Contents:

Introduction to Jaipur School -- Themes and Subjects -- Material Culture -- The Art Material and Application -- Suratakhana -- Art Analysis -- Jaipur School -- In Retrospect.