The Historic Art of India -- by, Anup Sabharwal M.D.

Indian artwork has a historical basis that draws its inspiration from and not limited to, culture, religion and philosophy. The music, architecture, writings, and art, gives one a greater appreciation of the different time periods from which the pieces originated. It also subtly reveals the influences that galvanized artists at those times. The Hinduism and Buddhism of the Ancient Period was defined from 3500 BCE-1200 CE. References state that the earliest pieces were wooden structures erected as Buddhist monuments. These were later formed into more refined stone structures by the fifth century CE. From that point forward, there was a focus on the development of ornamented Hindu temples and a shift to the sculpting of Hindu deities. By the tenth century CE and thereafter, the artists and laborers embellished the walls and ceilings with paints and precious stones making the temples a sight to see. In the varying parts of India, regional influences contributed to the design and architecture. The Islamic acendenancy was from 712 to 1757. In addition to social and cultural inspiration, politics played a significant role in design. Through business transactions and dealings between India and the Middle East, the traces of Islamic influence permeated much sooner than the period of Muslim rule in the thirteenth century. Interestingly, the art of this period was much more embraced by Europeans. The Colonial Period, from 1757-1947, and the Independence and the postcolonial period, from 1947 to present, demonstrated the significance of westernization. Artists began adopting nationalistic themes and eventually demonstrated resistance through their art. Conflict between modernism and the sense of self became evident. During the past few decades the female artists have provided us with different perspectives of art. Currently, contemporary artists have to some degree maintained traditional aspects of Indian art, but have given their works more modern and even radical features. Today’s art also imbued the various sources of media the artist has at his/her disposal. (Please visit "anupmd" via CollectorConnector to view some of this artwork)