The correct option is 1867-68.
Explanation
The history of Indian art commences with prehistoric rock paintings found in natural caves and rock shelters. These paintings serve as the earliest evidence of human creative expression in the Indian subcontinent, depicting the lifestyle, flora, and fauna of the period.Historical Analysis:
- 1867-68 (Correct): The first recorded discovery of rock paintings in India was made by the archaeologist Archibald Carlleyle in 1867-68. He discovered these paintings at Sohagi Ghat in the Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh (Vindhyan range). This discovery is particularly significant as it predates the discovery of the famous Altamira caves in Spain by twelve years.
- 1957-58: This timeline is associated with the discovery of the Bhimbetka rock shelters in Madhya Pradesh by V.S. Wakankar. Although Bhimbetka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major prehistoric site, it was not the first to be discovered.
- 1921-22: This period marks the excavation of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, leading to the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilization, not rock paintings.
- 1857-58: This year is historically significant for the First War of Indian Independence (Sepoy Mutiny), unrelated to the archaeological discovery of prehistoric art.
Key Takeaway:
The first rock paintings in India were discovered by Archibald Carlleyle in 1867-68 in the Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh.