The correct option is Plant fibre.
Explanation
Prehistoric rock paintings, particularly those from the Mesolithic period found at sites like Bhimbetka (Madhya Pradesh), relied entirely on locally available natural resources for creating art tools and materials.
Analysis of Materials:
- Brushes: The brushes used by prehistoric artists were primarily made from plant fibre. Artists would select twigs or thin stems and crush one end to separate the fibers, creating a makeshift brush suitable for applying pigment to rough rock surfaces.
- Pigments: The colours were derived from minerals found in the earth. For instance, red was obtained from haematite (geru), white from limestone, and green from chalcedony.
- Binders: To ensure the longevity of the paintings, these mineral powders were mixed with water and binding agents such as animal fat or tree gum/resin.
Key Takeaway: In prehistoric Indian rock art, brushes were fashioned from plant fibres (crushed twigs), while pigments were mineral-based and mixed with organic binders.