A remarkable exhibition in Patna is turning back the pages of history, showcasing a collection of rare and exquisite artworks described as the 'Instagram of the 19th century.' The Bihar Museum in Patna is currently hosting a display of Patna Qalam paintings, a unique school of art that flourished in the region during the colonial era, offering an intimate visual diary of daily life.
Windows to Colonial-Era Life
These delicate paintings, created with watercolours on paper, served a purpose strikingly similar to modern social media. They were not grand royal portraits or mythological scenes, but snapshots of ordinary existence. The artworks vividly depict street vendors, local festivals, domestic scenes, and the attire of common people from that period. This focus on the mundane makes them an invaluable historical record, capturing the essence of socio-cultural life in 19th-century Bihar.
The exhibition, which opened recently, features a curated selection from the museum's own holdings and private collections. Experts highlight that Patna Qalam, also known as the Company School of Painting in this region, developed as a hybrid style. It merged traditional Indian miniature painting techniques with a more realistic, documentary approach favoured by British patrons. Artists often used European materials like watercolour and paper, moving away from the older practice of painting on cloth or palm leaves.
A Fading Legacy and Modern Recognition
Despite its historical significance, the Patna Qalam tradition gradually faded after the 19th century. The current exhibition is a crucial effort to revive public interest and scholarly attention in this distinctive art form. Museum officials and curators emphasize that these paintings are more than just art; they are primary sources for historians, sociologists, and cultural enthusiasts seeking to understand the period beyond textual records.
The display is strategically timed to educate a new generation about this regional gem. By labeling it the 'Instagram of the 19th century,' organizers have drawn a clever parallel to contemporary culture, making the ancient art form more relatable to younger audiences. The exhibition provides detailed explanations about the themes, techniques, and the socio-economic context in which these paintings were produced.
Preserving a Piece of Bihar's Heritage
The initiative underscores a broader mission of cultural preservation. The Bihar Museum, through such exhibitions, aims to position itself as a central hub for understanding the state's rich and diverse artistic heritage. The Patna Qalam collection is a testament to the skill of local artists who adapted their craft to new markets and sensibilities during a time of significant change.
Visitors to the museum can expect to see a range of subjects, from a fish-seller at the market to a group of women performing household chores. Each painting is a frozen moment in time, rich with detail about clothing, architecture, tools, and social interactions. The exhibition not only celebrates the art but also sparks conversations about how we document our own lives today versus how it was done two centuries ago.
This showcase is a must-visit for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone curious about the everyday life of pre-modern India. It stands as a powerful reminder of the region's artistic legacy and the enduring human desire to capture and share the world as we see it.
