DEPARTMENT OF FINE ARTS & PAINTING
“NEP 2020” Master of arts 1st semester
Session-2024-25
Presentation Topic- Pala School of Art
Subject- Fine Art and Painting
Head Of Department
Prof. (Dr.) Ritu Johri
Department of fine arts and painting Jai
Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur
Submitted to: Submitted by:
Mr. Liladhar Divyanshi
(Asst. Professor) (M.A. 1st Semester)
Department of fine arts and painting Department of fine arts and painting
Jai Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur Jai Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur
Department of Fine Arts and Painting
Jai Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur
Page No. 1
Department of Fine Arts and Painting
Jai Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur
2024-2025
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the project entitled “PALA SCHOOL
OF ART” submitted in partial fulfilment of the
requirement for the “NEP 2020” Masters of arts (M.A.
1st semester), Department of Fine Art and Painting, Jai
Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur is a Bonafide work
carried out by Divyanshi during the academic session
2024-2025.
Date:--------------------
Head of Department
Prof. (Dr.) Ritu Johri
Department of fine arts and painting
Jai Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur
Page No. 2
Department of Fine Arts and Painting
Jai Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur
2024-2025
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the project entitled “PALA SCHOOL
OF ART” submitted in partial fulfilment of the
requirement for the “NEP 2020” Masters of arts (M.A.
1st semester), Department of Fine Art and Painting, Jai
Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur is a Bonafide work
carried out by Divyanshi during the academic session
2024-2025.
Date:--------------------
Submitted to:
Mr. Liladhar
Asst. Professor
Department of fine arts and painting
Jai Narayan Vyas University, Jodhpur
Page No. 3
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
I would like to express my gratitude to the
HOD Dr. Ritu Johri & Mr. Liladhar sir for their
valuable and helpful recommendations during the
planning stage and analysis of my research.
I would also like to extend my gratitude to the
Department of fine arts & paintings for providing
me with all the facilities that was required.
Finally, I would like to thank my family for their
support and care throughout my assignment work.
Divyanshi
M.A. 1st Sem
Page No. 4
INDEX
• Introduction to the Pala School of Art
• Historical Background and Patronage
• Key Features and Artistic Styles
• Architectural and Sculptural Marvels
• Influence and Legacy
• CONCLUSION
• BIBLIOGRAPHY
• THANK YOU
Page No. 5
PALA SCHOOL OF ART
The Pala School of Art represents a glorious chapter in
Indian art history, thriving during the reign of the Pala
dynasty in Eastern India, specifically in Bengal and Bihar.
Flourishing between the 8th and 12th centuries, it is
marked by its association with Mahayana and Vajrayana
Buddhism. This art form is renowned for its sophisticated
sculptures, exquisite manuscript illustrations, and
monumental architecture. Rooted in spiritual themes, it
reflects the religious fervor of its patrons while leaving an
indelible mark on the artistic traditions of India and
Southeast Asia.
Here’s a detailed exploration of the Pala School of Art
divided into four chapters:
Historical Context and Origins
The Pala dynasty emerged in the 8th century in the Bengal
and Bihar regions, with rulers like Gopala, Dharmapala,
and Devapala establishing one of the most significant
kingdoms in medieval India. The Palas were fervent
patrons of Buddhism, particularly its Mahayana and
Vajrayana sects, which heavily influenced the art they
supported.
The dynasty’s support for Buddhist monasteries like
Nalanda, Vikramashila, and Somapura turned these
centers into hubs of learning and artistic activity. Artisans,
monks, and scholars worked together to produce artworks
Page No. 6
that were not just decorative but also deeply spiritual,
reflecting the teachings and philosophies of Buddhism.
The geographic location of the Pala kingdom, with its
proximity to trade routes, also facilitated the transmission
of artistic styles to regions like Tibet, Nepal, and Southeast
Asia.
Distinctive Features of Pala Art
Manuscript Paintings
Pala manuscript paintings, usually created on palm leaves,
are among the most celebrated works of this school. These
miniature illustrations often adorned religious texts like
the Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita (The Perfection of
Wisdom) and depicted Buddhist deities, scenes from the
Jataka tales, and mandalas.
The figures in these paintings are characterized by their
delicate, linear outlines, almond-shaped eyes, elongated
bodies, and serene expressions. Bright colors like red,
green, and blue were commonly used, with gold accents
adding a touch of divinity.
Sculpture in Stone and Bronze
The Pala sculptures are masterpieces of craftsmanship.
Bronze statues, created using the lost-wax method, are
particularly notable for their fine detailing and polished
surfaces. The figures often depict Buddhist deities like
Avalokiteshvara, Tara, and Buddha himself, radiating
calmness and spiritual energy.
Stone sculptures, carved out of black or grey basalt,
Page No. 7
display an extraordinary level of precision and intricacy.
The elaborate ornamentation on these statues, combined
with their serene facial expressions, exemplifies the
technical and artistic prowess of Pala artisans.
Iconography
The art of the Pala School is deeply symbolic. Each
element in the paintings and sculptures carries spiritual
significance. For instance, the lotus symbolizes purity,
while the dhyana mudra (meditative posture) reflects
spiritual enlightenment. The recurring themes of
compassion and wisdom underscore the Buddhist ideals of
the time.
Iconic Works and Prominent Sites
Manuscripts and Paintings
The Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita is one of the most
famous manuscripts of the Pala School. Its palm-leaf pages
are adorned with intricate illustrations that depict
Buddhist deities and scenes of meditation.
Other notable manuscripts include the Pancharaksha and
texts associated with Vajrayana rituals. These works not
only served religious purposes but also stood as
testaments to the artistic sophistication of the time.
Page No. 8
Ashthashastrika Pragyaparmita Illuminated Manuscipt, Pala
School, 12" Century
Bodhisattva Giving Blessings
Ashthashastrika Pragyaparmita Illuminated Manuscipt, Pala
School, 12" Centary
Page No. 9
Sculptural Masterpieces
• Bronze Sculptures: The statues of Avalokiteshvara and
Tara are prime examples of Pala bronze art. These
figures, with their graceful postures and elaborate
headdresses, reflect the pinnacle of artistic
achievement in the medium.
• Stone Sculptures: Basalt statues of Buddha and
Bodhisattvas, often found in ruins of monasteries like
Nalanda, exhibit detailed ornamentation and a unique
blend of spiritual and aesthetic appeal.
Key Sites
The monasteries of Nalanda, Vikramashila, and Somapura
were not only centers of learning but also major
production hubs for Pala art. Excavations at these sites
have unearthed a wealth of sculptures, inscriptions, and
artifacts that provide insight into the artistic legacy of the
Pala period.
Legacy and Cultural Influence
The influence of the Pala School of Art extended far
beyond the borders of Bengal and Bihar. As Buddhism
spread to Tibet, Nepal, and Southeast Asia, so did the
artistic traditions of the Palas. Tibetan thangka paintings,
for instance, show clear stylistic parallels with Pala
manuscript illustrations.
Nepalese art also borrowed heavily from Pala aesthetics,
particularly in its bronze sculptures. The iconography and
Page No. 10
stylistic elements of the Pala School were integrated into
the local traditions of these regions, creating a synthesis
that enriched their artistic heritage.
Despite the decline of the Pala dynasty in the 12th
century, the art it nurtured continued to inspire later
traditions. The serene expressions, intricate
ornamentation, and spiritual depth of Pala art remain
celebrated aspects of Indian and Buddhist art history.
Visual References and Suggestions
1. Manuscript Paintings: Illustrations from the
Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita showcasing delicate
lines and vivid colors.
2. Bronze Sculptures: Statues of Tara and
Avalokiteshvara highlighting the lost-wax casting
technique.
3. Stone Sculptures: Black basalt Buddha statues from
Nalanda and Vikramashila featuring intricate carvings.
4. Architectural Ruins: The remnants of monasteries like
Somapura and Vikramashila, offering a glimpse into
the architectural prowess of the Palas.
Page No. 11
CONCLUSION
The Pala School of Art represents a remarkable blend
of spirituality and artistic excellence, flourishing under
the Pala dynasty's patronage. Its manuscript
paintings, intricate sculptures, and architectural
brilliance not only enriched Indian art but also
influenced Buddhist traditions across Tibet, Nepal,
and Southeast Asia.
Though the dynasty declined, its artistic legacy
endured, shaping cultural expressions for centuries.
The Pala School remains a testament to the power of
art as a medium of spiritual devotion and a bridge
across cultures and time.
Page No. 12
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Wikipedia contributors. “Pala Art.” Wikipedia, The Free
Encyclopedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pala_Art.
Indian Art History Blog. “The Pala School of Art: A Golden
Age of Buddhist Aesthetics.” IndianArtHistory.com,
https://www.indianarthistory.com/pala-school.
Buddhist Studies Online. “The Artistic Legacy of the Pala
Empire.” BuddhistStudies.org,
https://www.buddhiststudies.org/pala-art.
Heritage India Magazine. “Pala Dynasty and Its
Contribution to Indian Art.” HeritageIndiaMagazine.com,
https://www.heritageindiamagazine.com/pala-dynasty-
art.
The Art Journal. “Exploring the Pala Art Tradition.”
TheArtJournal.com, https://www.theartjournal.com/pala-
tradition.
Page No. 13
THANK
YOU
Page No. 14
