The correct option is 2 and 3 only
Explanation
The Chitrasutra is a seminal ancient Indian treatise on the art of painting. It forms a specific section (Khanda III) of the Vishnudharmottara Purana, a text generally dated to the Gupta or post-Gupta period (approx. 5th-7th century AD). It lays down the standards (canons) for classical Indian art.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1: Incorrect. The Chitrasutra is not a standalone text; it is a section (Chapters 35-43) within the third part of the Vishnudharmottara Purana. Furthermore, it is not authored by Kalidasa. The text is traditionally attributed to Sage Markandeya, who narrates it to King Vajra.
- Statement 2: Correct. The text elaborates on pratima lakshana (the characteristics and canons of image-making), including rules on proportion, posture, foreshortening (kshayavriddhi), and the classification of men and women in art. Although the Purana has a separate section specifically titled Pratima Lakshana for sculpture, the Chitrasutra applies these canonical rules to the medium of painting.
- Statement 3: Correct. The Chitrasutra is regarded as the fountainhead of Indian painting standards. It served as the theoretical basis and provided the aesthetic criteria for the classical and medieval schools of painting in India, including the great mural traditions of Ajanta and Bagh, and later influenced various regional styles.
Key Takeaway:
The Chitrasutra (part of the Vishnudharmottara Purana) is the primary source of information on ancient Indian painting techniques, covering the six limbs of painting (Shadanga), types of paintings, and preparation of surfaces.