The correct option is Armed deities and animals.
Explanation
Mithila painting (also known as Madhubani painting) is a traditional folk art form from the Mithila region of Bihar. A defining characteristic of this style is the strict spatial segregation of themes based on the location within the house (inner private rooms versus outer public spaces).Detailed Analysis:
- Armed deities and animals is Correct: The outer courtyards, verandahs, and outer walls are spaces accessible to guests and outsiders. Consequently, the paintings here typically depict armed deities, animals, processions, or scenes from rural life. These motifs serve a protective function (warding off evil) or represent power and social standing, rather than the intimate spirituality of the inner rooms.
- The Kohbar or lotus symbol is Incorrect: The Kohbar (an elaborate design featuring a lotus pierced by a bamboo stalk) is a fertility symbol. It is strictly painted in the Kohbar-ghar (nuptial chamber) to bless newlyweds, not in the outer courtyard.
- The family deity (Kuladevi) is Incorrect: The family deity (Kuladevi or Kuladevata) is depicted in the Gosain-ghar (prayer room), which is the most sacred and private area of the home, reserved for family worship.
- Intricate geometric floor patterns is Incorrect: While intricate geometric patterns known as Aripan are drawn on the floors of courtyards, the specific subject matter of "armed deities and animals" refers to the wall paintings (Bhitti Chitra) characteristic of the outer sections.
Key Takeaway:
In Mithila art, inner rooms feature sacred and fertility themes (Kohbar, Family Deities), while outer spaces feature secular, protective, or decorative themes (Animals, Armed Deities, Processions).