Chokha Paintings

Bhawani Das, popularly known as Chokha, was an Indian painter from the state of Rajasthan during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He is primarily associated with the Mewar school of painting, which is one of the most important schools of Indian miniature painting. Chokha was born into a family of professional artists and was a part of the atelier in the court of Mewar at Udaipur.

Chokha's works are characterized by their intricate detailing, vibrant colors, and the depiction of courtly life, Hindu mythology, and portraits of the royals. He was particularly skilled in portraying the opulence of the courtly lifestyle and the regalia of the royalty. His paintings often included elaborate architectural backgrounds and lush landscapes, which were innovative at the time and demonstrated a keen observation of the natural world.

He was active during a period when the Mewar school was going through a transformation, combining Rajput traditions with the influences of Mughal art, which were introduced to the region by artists who migrated from the Mughal courts after the decline of the empire. This synthesis can be seen in Chokha’s work, which maintains a Rajput focus on bold lines and strong colors but also incorporates the Mughal preference for realism and finesse.

Chokha's legacy includes not only his contribution to the Mewar school of painting but also his influence on the subsequent generations of artists. His works are held in high regard and can be found in various museums and private collections around the world, providing insight into the rich artistic heritage of Rajasthan.