Correct Option
The correct option is Lapis Lazuli.
Explanation
Mithila painting, widely known as Madhubani painting, is a traditional folk art form originating from the Mithila region of Bihar. A distinct feature of this art form is the use of natural, eco-friendly colors derived strictly from locally available plant and mineral sources, applied using fingers, twigs, brushes, and nib-pens.
Analysis of Options
- Lapis Lazuli is the correct answer: Lapis Lazuli is a semi-precious stone used to produce high-quality ultramarine blue pigment. It was historically expensive and imported, making it a staple of Miniature paintings (such as the Mughal and Pahari schools) patronized by royal courts. It is not used in Mithila folk art. In Mithila paintings, the colour blue is traditionally derived from Indigo (Neel).
- Phalsa flowers is incorrect: Phalsa flowers are traditionally used in Mithila painting to obtain reddish or maroon pigments.
- Bilwa leaves is incorrect: Bilwa (Bel) leaves are a common natural source used to create the colour green.
- Turmeric is incorrect: Turmeric (Haldi) is universally used in this art form to produce vibrant yellow shades.
Key Takeaway
Mithila (Madhubani) paintings are characterized by the use of natural dyes derived from vegetation (turmeric, indigo, sandalwood, flowers, leaves), charcoal (soot), and rice powder. Mineral pigments like Lapis Lazuli are characteristic of aristocratic Miniature art, not rural Folk art.