The correct option is 2 only
Explanation
The Jaipur School of Painting is a prominent sub-school of the Rajasthani style of miniature painting. It evolved from the Amer style and is historically significant for its early and profound synthesis of indigenous Rajput aesthetics with Mughal naturalism, owing to the close political relations between the Kachwaha rulers and the Mughal court.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Jaipur School originated in Amer (Amber), the former capital of the Kachwaha Rajputs. Amer was geographically the nearest of all large Rajput states to the Mughal capitals of Agra and Delhi. This proximity, combined with early matrimonial alliances (such as that of Raja Bharmal’s daughter to Emperor Akbar), facilitated a strong influx of Mughal influence into the local art style earlier than in other Rajasthani schools.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Sawai Jai Singh II, who founded the city of Jaipur, was a significant patron of the arts, sciences, and architecture. He did not ban paintings; on the contrary, he established the Suratkhana (the department of paintings) within his court, where artists were employed to create miniatures and illustrate manuscripts.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The reign of Sawai Pratap Singh (1778-1803) is considered the golden age of the Jaipur School. During this period, the predominant Mughal influence actually receded, and a distinct, crystallized Jaipur style emerged. The art moved away from strict Mughal naturalism towards a more stylized and decorative indigenous aesthetic, characterized by bright colors and specific facial types, rather than having Mughal features replace indigenous ones.
Key Takeaway:
The Jaipur School is distinguished by its early absorption of Mughal elements due to the Amer-Mughal alliance, but it evolved into a distinctively Rajasthani style with bold colors and local themes, particularly flourishing under the patronage of Sawai Pratap Singh.