The correct option is The mixing and application of colours.
Explanation
The Vishnudharmottara Purana is a key text on Indian arts, and its section titled Chitrasutra is considered the standard treatise on Indian painting. Ancient Indian art theory outlines the Shadanga or "Six Limbs of Painting," which serve as the guiding principles for creating masterpieces, particularly evident in the classical mural traditions like Ajanta.
Detailed Analysis:
The term Varnikabhanga is the sixth limb of the Shadanga. It is derived from two words: Varnika (pigment or color) and Bhanga (differentiation, breaking, or distribution).
- It refers to the artistic manner of using the brush and colors.
- It encompasses the knowledge of pigments, the mixing of colors to create various shades, and their skillful application to produce modeling, depth, and texture.
- It represents the technical mastery over the medium of painting.
Why other options are incorrect:
- The breaking of the colour spectrum: "Breaking of the colour spectrum" refers to the physical phenomenon of dispersion (physics), not the artistic technique described in ancient texts.
- The decay of paintings over time: The decay of paintings is a natural process and is not a prescribed artistic principle.
- The preparation of the wall surface: The preparation of the wall surface is a distinct technical stage (often involving plastering or Bhumi Bandhana), but it is not what Varnikabhanga specifically denotes.
Key Takeaway:
The Shadanga (Six Limbs) of Indian Painting are:
- Rupa-bheda: Knowledge of appearances/forms.
- Pramanam: Correct perception, measure, and structure.
- Bhava: Action of feelings on forms.
- Lavanya-yojanam: Infusion of grace and artistic representation.
- Sadrisyam: Similitude or likeness.
- Varnikabhanga: Artistic manner of using the brush and colors.