The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Golconda School is a prominent sub-school of Deccan miniature painting that flourished under the Qutb Shahi dynasty. It is historically noted for its opulence, vibrant color palettes, and the integration of foreign influences due to extensive trade.
Statement 1 is Correct: By the end of the 16th century, Golconda had established itself as the wealthiest of the Deccan kingdoms. This economic prosperity was primarily driven by its monopoly over the diamond trade (including the famous Kollur Mine) and the thriving maritime trade through ports like Masulipatnam.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: The visuals of the Golconda School are characterized by the lavish use of gold, not its absence. Paintings from this school typically feature subjects adorned with heavy gold jewelry, costumes with gold embroidery, and sometimes gold backgrounds, reflecting the immense wealth of the court.
Statement 3 is Correct: There was a robust trade relationship between the Qutb Shahi sultanate and European powers, particularly the Dutch East India Company. In the late 17th century, Dutch merchants commissioned and carried portraits of the Golconda Sultans and harem scenes back to Europe, facilitating a cultural exchange that influenced the art market.
Key Takeaway: The Golconda School of Painting is distinct for its rich aesthetic, specifically the extensive application of gold, and its historical connection to European markets through Dutch trade networks.