The correct option is Nisardin.
Explanation
The Mewar School is one of the earliest and most significant schools of Rajasthani miniature painting. Its formative phase is associated with Chawand, the temporary capital of the Mewar kingdom following the siege of Chittorgarh.
Historical Analysis:
- The Chawand Ragamala set, dated 1605 AD, is the earliest dated example of Mewar miniature painting.
- It was painted by the artist Nisardin (also known as Nasiruddin).
- This set was commissioned during the reign of Rana Amar Singh I.
- The style of this set is characterized by bold primary colours, flat backgrounds, and stylized figures, reflecting a strong indigenous tradition with minimal Mughal influence compared to later works.
Comparison with Other Options:
- Sahibdin: He was a dominant artist of the Mewar school in the subsequent period (active c. 1628-1655). He painted a well-known Ragamala set in 1628 and illustrated the Ramayana and Rasikapriya.
- Manohar and Jagannath: These artists were active during the mid-17th century, particularly under the patronage of Maharana Jagat Singh I, representing a more evolved phase of the Mewar style.
Key Takeaway: The artist Nisardin painted the seminal 1605 Ragamala set at Chawand, marking the beginning of the documented history of the Mewar School of painting.