Correct Option
The correct option is Mughal and Pahari miniatures.
Explanation
The Bengal School of Art was an influential art movement and a style of Indian painting that originated in Bengal, primarily Kolkata and Shantiniketan, during the British Raj in the early 20th century. It emerged as a nationalist reaction against the academic art styles promoted by European art schools in India.
Detailed Analysis
- Rejection of Western Realism: Led by Abanindranath Tagore and supported by E.B. Havell, the movement sought to counter the influence of Western "Academic Realism" (Option d) and the hybrid "Company School" style (Option b), which they felt lacked Indian soul and spiritual depth.
- Revival of Indian Traditions: The artists of the Bengal School turned to India's historic art forms for inspiration. They were deeply influenced by the Mughal and Pahari (Rajput) miniatures for their detailed lyricism, romanticism, and distinct color palettes.
- Other Influences: In addition to miniatures, the linear rhythm and spiritual aesthetics of the Ajanta murals were also significant sources of inspiration. The movement utilized the Japanese "wash technique" combined with these traditional Indian styles to create a distinct soft, misty, and emotive aesthetic.
Why other options are incorrect:
- Company School albums: This style represented the colonial influence the Bengal School explicitly rejected.
- Deccani portraiture: While part of Indian heritage, the primary stylistic revival focused on the Mughal and Pahari traditions, not specifically Deccani portraiture.
- European academic realism: This was the style associated with Raja Ravi Varma and British art schools, against which the Bengal School rebelled.
Key Takeaway: The Bengal School of Art, led by Abanindranath Tagore, revived Indian nationalism in art by rejecting European Realism and drawing primary inspiration from Mughal and Pahari miniatures and Ajanta murals.