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Expression of thoughts and emotions through various mediums of art has been the
way the human race has grown and evolved over the centuries. Artistic expressions,
influenced by elements of nature and the cultural nuances of each society, have
long been the reflection of life. The path to the modern future is illuminated with
endeavors of a humble past. Such is the curiosity to know more about the vast treasury
of accomplishments by the human race that we have delved deep into the cave drawings
of our ancestors and found entire galleries in them. Fast forward to the prehistoric
artists of Lascaux Cave who left behind their marks of creativity more than 14,000
years ago and we realize how much the world have evolved over the ages. The purpose
for such creations has changed from then, from being produced for utility purposes
in various cults and rituals to being a work of art that provides and element of
beauty for the human race. From scribbles that helped maintain records to providing
insights from the past to inspire the future.
Up until the mind 19th century, the rulers and barons of India commissioned the
construction of grand structures such as fortresses, palaces, temples, cenotaphs
etc. as a display of their riches.
The great era of painted havelis and temples started in the mid 19th century and
carried on well into the mid 20th century, as Marawari merchants became great patrons
of the art of fresco and used it as an expression of their rising status . During
this time, in Nawalgarh, there grew a peculiar symbiosis between the Rajpurts and
the Marwari merchants. The merchants were drawn in by the safe have offered by the
Rajputs and in return the merchants offered finances to maintain that security.
This proved to be a source of great prosperity for the town as the trading convoys
and caravans moved about freely without feeling threatened through out trading routes
between the Gujarat coast and Delhi as well as the southern Silk Route between the
Middle East and China.More...