With reference to the mural paintings at Sittanavasal, consider the following statements: 1. The contours are drawn in black against a white background. 2. The bodies of the figures are rendered in yellow with subtle modelling. 3. The paintings depict dancing figures of celestial nymphs on the pillars of the veranda. Which of the statements given above are correct?

The correct option is 2 and 3 only. Explanation The mural paintings at Sittanavasal (Pudukkottai district, Tamil Nadu) are a significant example of early medieval Indian art, dating to the Pandya period (9th century AD). These paintings are associated with Jainism and are often compared to the classical style of Ajanta in terms of technique and aesthetics. They adorn the ceilings and pillars of the rock-cut Jain cave temple. Statement-wise Analysis - Statement 1 is Incorrect. While the paintings at Sittanavasal share the fresco-secco technique with other mural traditions, the contours of the figures are typically drawn in vermilion (red ochre), not black, against a light background. The use of red outlines is a distinguishing feature of this specific school, contrasting with the varied outline colors found in Ajanta. - Statement 2 is Correct. The bodies of the figures, particularly the celestial nymphs, are rendered in yellow. The artists used subtle modelling with colors to create a sense of volume and three-dimensionality, adhering to the classical standards of Indian painting. - Statement 3 is Correct. The pillars of the veranda (ardha-mandapa) are famous for their depictions of dancing figures of celestial nymphs (Apsaras). These figures are noted for their rhythmic poses and expressive gestures. The ceiling of the same veranda features the famous "Lotus Pond" (Samavasarana) scene. Key Takeaway Sittanavasal murals are Jain paintings from the Pandya period (Tamil Nadu). Key features include the Lotus Pond scene on the ceiling, dancing Apsaras on the pillars, and the use of red ochre (vermilion) for outlines.

NCERT Class 11 Art & Culture — Chapter 5: Later Mural Traditions

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With reference to the mural paintings at Sittanavasal, consider the following statements:

The contours are drawn in black against a white background.
The bodies of the figures are rendered in yellow with subtle modelling.
The paintings depict dancing figures of celestial nymphs on the pillars of the veranda.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1, 2 and 3
B1 and 2 only
C2 only
D2 and 3 only

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

The mural paintings at Sittanavasal (Pudukkottai district, Tamil Nadu) are a significant example of early medieval Indian art, dating to the Pandya period (9th century AD). These paintings are associated with Jainism and are often compared to the classical style of Ajanta in terms of technique and aesthetics. They adorn the ceilings and pillars of the rock-cut Jain cave temple.

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Incorrect. While the paintings at Sittanavasal share the fresco-secco technique with other mural traditions, the contours of the figures are typically drawn in vermilion (red ochre), not black, against a light background. The use of red outlines is a distinguishing feature of this specific school, contrasting with the varied outline colors found in Ajanta.
Statement 2 is Correct. The bodies of the figures, particularly the celestial nymphs, are rendered in yellow. The artists used subtle modelling with colors to create a sense of volume and three-dimensionality, adhering to the classical standards of Indian painting.
Statement 3 is Correct. The pillars of the veranda (ardha-mandapa) are famous for their depictions of dancing figures of celestial nymphs (Apsaras). These figures are noted for their rhythmic poses and expressive gestures. The ceiling of the same veranda features the famous "Lotus Pond" (Samavasarana) scene.

Key Takeaway

Sittanavasal murals are Jain paintings from the Pandya period (Tamil Nadu). Key features include the Lotus Pond scene on the ceiling, dancing Apsaras on the pillars, and the use of red ochre (vermilion) for outlines.

Your note

More from Chapter 5: Later Mural Traditions

Consider the following statements about the Nayaka paintings at Tiruvarur: 1. There is a panel narrating the story of Muchukunda. 2. The paintings depict scenes from the life of Mahavira. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Which dynasty established its power in the Deccan following the decline of the Vakatakas and is credited with the patronage of the Badami caves?

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In the tradition of South Indian mural painting, the term Chaityakari was used to denote which of the following?

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The "Tripurantaka" form of Shiva is prominently depicted in the mural paintings of:

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The Virbhadra Temple, renowned for its Vijayanagara style mural paintings, is situated in:

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Solution

The correct option is 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Incorrect. While the paintings at Sittanavasal share the fresco-secco technique with other mural traditions, the contours of the figures are typically drawn in vermilion (red ochre), not black, against a light background. The use of red outlines is a distinguishing feature of this specific school, contrasting with the varied outline colors found in Ajanta.
Statement 2 is Correct. The bodies of the figures, particularly the celestial nymphs, are rendered in yellow. The artists used subtle modelling with colors to create a sense of volume and three-dimensionality, adhering to the classical standards of Indian painting.
Statement 3 is Correct. The pillars of the veranda (ardha-mandapa) are famous for their depictions of dancing figures of celestial nymphs (Apsaras). These figures are noted for their rhythmic poses and expressive gestures. The ceiling of the same veranda features the famous "Lotus Pond" (Samavasarana) scene.