Context

The Government launched ‘Life in Miniature’ project, a collaboration between the National Museum, New Delhi, Ministry of Culture, and Google Arts & Culture.

About

What is ‘Life in Miniature’ Project?

• Under the Project, several hundred miniature paintings from the National Museum, New Delhi can be viewed online on Google Arts & Culture by people around the world.
• The project uses technologies like machine learning, augmented reality and digitization with high-definition robotic cameras, to showcase these special works of art in a magical new way.
  
• Inspired by the domes and doorways that punctuate Indian homes and public spaces, this is the first AR-powered art gallery designed with traditional Indian architecture.

The National Museum The National Museum in New Delhi is the premiere cultural institution of India and has antiquities and art objects of more than 5000 years. During the pandemic, the museum has been actively attempting at getting digital engagement from visitors at online mode.

Miniature paintings

• Though compact (about the same size as a small book), miniature paintings typically tackle profound themes such as love, power and faith.
• Miniatures are rich in detailed representations of topics that have shaped Indian culture.
• The earliest Miniature paintings in India can be traced back to the 7th century AD, when they flourished under the patronage of the Palas of Bengal.
• Buddhist texts and scriptures were illustrated on 3-inch-wide palm leaf manuscripts, with images of Buddhist deities.
• Pala art was defined by subdued colours and sinuous lines, evocative of the murals in Ajanta.