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NCERT Class 11 Fine Art Chapter 1 Prehistoric Rock Paintings
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Prehistoric Rock Paintings
Chapter: 1
| EXERCISE |
1. According to your observation how did the people of prehistoric times select themes for their paintings?
Ans: Prehistoric painting was basically animal-based, usually on horse and bisons, though deer, goats and mammoths were also found. Man very rarely represented himself: in the Trois-Frères caves in the Pyrenees, he seems to be disguised as the “sorcerer”. People of prehistoric times selected themes for their paintings based on their daily life, surroundings, and survival needs. Their artwork often depicted hunting scenes, animals, human figures, and natural elements, reflecting their dependence on nature. These themes symbolized their relationship with the environment, their belief systems, and their attempts to communicate with one another or with spiritual forces. The subjects were chosen to represent activities like hunting rituals, food gathering, and community events.
These prehistoric paintings help us to understand about early human beings, their lifestyle, their food habits, their daily activities and, above all, they help us understand their mind—the way they thought. Their paintings, often found in caves, served as a form of storytelling, documentation, or spiritual expression, showing their understanding of the world around them. Some common characteristics of prehistoric art include the use of natural pigments derived from minerals and plants, a focus on representing animals and humans, use of asymmetrical composition, and an emphasis on capturing movement and vitality.
2. What could have been the reasons for depicting more animal figures than human figures in cave paintings?
Ans: The reasons for depicting more animal figures than human figures in cave paintings could be because, the early man wanted to warn the younger generations as well as other groups about the dangers of the animals. The predominance of animal figures over human figures in cave paintings may be attributed to their significance in the lives of prehistoric people. Animals were vital for survival, providing food, clothing, and tools, making them central to their existence. These paintings may have been part of rituals or beliefs, intended to ensure successful hunts or appease spirits. Animals, being majestic and powerful, likely inspired awe and reverence, leading to their frequent depiction. Additionally, the cave paintings illustrate the various types of animals that were hunted, such as deer, bison, and mammoths. Hence, hunting animals held great importance for early humans, as revealed by cave paintings. Cave art may also reflect early humans’ intimate relationship with the environment and its creatures. Many of the depicted animals bison, horses, deer, and others were crucial for the survival of these early communities, providing food, clothing, and tools. Additionally, the dynamic movements of animals could have been more challenging and interesting to portray, showcasing the artist’s skill. Humans, being familiar, may have seemed less mystical to represent.
3. Many visuals of prehistoric cave paintings have been given in this chapter. Among these which one do you like the most and why? Give a critical appreciation of the visual.
Ans: One of the most captivating visuals from the prehistoric cave paintings is the hand-linked dancing figures from Lakhudiyar, Uttarakhand. This painting showcases a group of human figures linked together in a dynamic, rhythmic pose. The energy and fluidity of the motion are visually striking, emphasizing the importance of communal activities like dancing in prehistoric societies. The simple yet effective stick-like representation of humans, along with the use of red and black ochre, enhances the sense of movement. The scene likely symbolizes social unity or ritualistic practices, giving us insight into the cultural and spiritual life of early humans. The vivid depiction of human interaction also underscores the creativity and emotional depth that prehistoric artists imbued in their work.
The choice of painting such scenes on rock walls, often in hard-to-reach places, suggests the ritual or sacred importance of these activities. The fluidity of the figures indicates an early understanding of motion and the desire to depict dynamic human experiences, such as celebration or spiritual rites. The use of geometric patterns and vibrant colors further enhances the aesthetic appeal of the visual, showcasing the artists’ skill in creating lifelike depictions despite limited resources and tools.
4. Other than Bhimbetka, which are the other major sites where these prehistoric paintings have been found? Prepare a report on different aspects of these paintings with pictures or line drawings.
Ans: Bhimbetka and other sites are mostly found in central India and south India. The Lakhudiyar caves in Uttarakhand, Kupgallu caves in Telangana, Jogimara and Adamgarh caves in State of Madhya Pradesh, Piklihal and Tekkalkotta caves in Karnataka are lauded with prehistoric and Mesolithic paintings. Some of the examples of sites early rock paintings are Lakhudiyar in Uttarakhand, Kupgallu in Telangana, Piklihal and Tekkalkotta in Karnataka, Bhimbetka and Jogimara in Madhya Pradesh etc.
Prehistoric paintings have been found at various sites across India, apart from Bhimbetka.
Notable sites include:
(i) Lakhudiyar (Uttarakhand): Lakhudiyar is a rock shelter which were the rescue spot of early man to save them from harsh climate. Lakhudiyar means ‘one lakh caves’. These walls depict the life and the surroundings of the early man. Rock art depicting hunting scenes, human-animal interaction, and geometric shapes.
(ii) Sittanavasal (Tamil Nadu): Sittanavasal is a small hamlet in Pudukkottai district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for the Sittanavasal Cave, a 2nd-century Jain cave complex. From the 7th to the 9th century A.D., the village flourished as a Jain centre. Murals in caves with Jain themes, showing detailed human figures.
(iii) Badami (Karnataka): Badami is famous for its rock cut monuments such as the Badami cave temples, as well as the structural temples such as the Bhutanatha temples, Badami Shivalaya and Jambulingesvara Temple. Paintings of deities and symbolic motifs in rock-cut temples.
(iv) Khireshwar (Madhya Pradesh): Its origin is said to have been in the 6th century, during the rule of Kalachuri dynasty. The citadel was built during this era. The various caves probably have been carved out in the 11th century. In these caves are idols of Lord Vishnu. Rock paintings showcasing animals, hunters, and geometric patterns.
(v) Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra): These magnificent caves containing carvings that depict the life of Buddha, and their carvings and sculptures are considered to be the beginning of classical Indian art. Buddhist murals illustrating religious themes, life stories of Buddha, and intricate designs.
5. In modern times, how have walls been used as a surface to make paintings, graphics, etc?
Ans: In modern times, walls have become popular surfaces for a variety of artistic expressions, including murals, street art, and graphic designs. Urban spaces are often transformed into canvases by street artists, who use spray paint, stencils, and posters to create vibrant, political, and social commentary. Murals in public buildings and spaces also serve as storytelling tools, representing cultural identity and history. Graphic design, including advertising and branding, uses walls as platforms for large-scale visuals that capture attention. The combination of art and architecture creates visually engaging environments, blending creativity with urban life, often enhancing the aesthetic appeal of public spaces.
