What did the Mughal style of painting offer in contrast to the indigenous Indian style?

1. Exclusively flat perspective
2. Three-dimensional figures and optical reality
3. Absence of flora and fauna
4. Emphasis on strong use of lines

2

Answer: Three-dimensional figures and optical reality
The Mughal style of painting offered subtlety and finesse, portrayed almost three-dimensional figures, and created optical reality, distinguishing it from the indigenous Indian style.

The pre–Mughal and parallel indigenous schools of paintings in India had their strong distinct style, aesthetics and purpose. The indigenous Indian style emphasised on flat perspective, strong use of lines, vivid colour palette, and bold modelling of figures and architecture. The Mughal style offered subtlety and finesse, portrayed almost three-dimensional figures and created optical reality. The royal court scenes, portraits, depiction of accurate flora and fauna were some of the favourite themes of the Mughal artists. Thus, the Mughal painting ushered in a new style and sophistication to the Indian arts of that time.