History of Art–II

Course Type	Course Code	No. Of Credits
Discipline Core	SCC1VA116	2

Programme Coordinator: Dr. Kshama Divedi

1. Does the course connect to, build on or overlap with any other courses offered in AUD?

This course complements the studio-based courses offered in the Bachelor of Visual Art programme, including Drawing–II, Composition–II, Printmaking–II, and Clay Modelling–II. While those courses focus on practical skill development, History of Art–II provides students with the historical, theoretical, and cultural foundations necessary for understanding artistic traditions. The course builds an informed appreciation of Indian art history and strengthens students' ability to relate historical knowledge to contemporary visual practices.

2. Specific requirements on the part of students who can be admitted to this course: None (Pre-requisites; prior knowledge level; any others – please specify) None.

The course is open to all students enrolled in the Second Semester of the Bachelor of Visual Art (BVA) programme .

3. No. of students to be admitted (with justification if lower than usual cohort size is proposed):

Usual cohort size as approved for the Bachelor of Visual Arts (BVA) programme.

4. Course scheduling (semester; semester-long/half-semester course; workshop mode; seminar mode; any other – please specify):

Semester-long, Semester-long, Lecture-based Course with Visual Presentations.

5. How does the course link with the vision of AUD?

The course aligns with the vision of Ambedkar University Delhi by promoting critical thinking, historical understanding, cultural diversity, and interdisciplinary learning. It introduces students to the philosophical and historical foundations of Indian art traditions, encouraging them to examine artistic practices within their social, cultural, and historical contexts.

Through the study of classical aesthetic theories and the visual culture of early civilizations, students develop analytical skills, cultural sensitivity, and an appreciation for India's artistic heritage. The course supports AUD's commitment to socially engaged, reflective, and knowledge-based education.

6.How does the course link with the specific programme(s) where it is being offered?

History of Art–II is a core theory course in the Bachelor of Visual Art programme. It provides the historical and conceptual foundation required for studio-based learning by introducing students to major developments in Indian art history and aesthetics.

The course strengthens students' understanding of artistic traditions and enables them to relate practical work to historical, cultural, and theoretical perspectives. It complements the practical courses offered during the semester and prepares students for advanced studies in art history, criticism, and visual culture.

Course Description:

Design & Digital Media–I is a foundation practical course that introduces students to the basic principles of design and digital media. The course focuses on two-dimensional and three-dimensional design using geometric forms, simple materials, and digital tools. Students explore visual organization, spatial relationships, creativity, and problem-solving through studio practice and digital applications. The course also introduces AI-assisted creative tools and encourages experimentation, sustainability, and innovative visual thinking, providing a strong foundation for advanced studies in design and digital arts.

Course Objectives:

History of Art–II introduces students to the fundamental concepts and historical development of Indian art from its earliest phases. The course examines the classical theory of Shadanga (Six Limbs of Art) and explores the artistic achievements of the Indus Valley Civilization, including architecture, sculpture, pottery, seals, and material culture.

Students will develop the ability to analyse artworks within their historical and cultural contexts while understanding the evolution of Indian aesthetic thought. The course combines lectures, visual analysis, discussions, museum-based learning, and written assignments to build historical awareness and critical appreciation of art.

Course Outcomes: At the end of the course students will be able to:

CO1	Explain the concept of the Six Limbs of Art (Shadanga) and their significance in Indian aesthetics.
CO2	Identify and analyse the artistic and cultural achievements of the Indus Valley Civilization.
CO3	Interpret artworks using historical, aesthetic, and cultural perspectives.
CO4	Compare early Indian artistic traditions with contemporary visual practices.
CO5	Apply historical knowledge to develop informed visual and critical responses.
CO6	Demonstrate an appreciation of Indian art heritage through research, discussion, and visual analysis.

Modules and Readings

Module 1 (Lecture Hours Weeks 1–5)

Module Name: Six Limbs of Art (Shadanga)

Description

This module introduces students to the classical Indian theory of art known as the Shadanga (Six Limbs of Art), as discussed in traditional Indian aesthetic texts. Students will examine the six fundamental principles—Rupa Bheda (Knowledge of Forms), Pramana (Proportion), Bhava (Expression), Lavanya Yojanam (Grace), Sadrishyam (Resemblance), and Varnikabhanga (Colour Application)—and understand their significance in the development of Indian painting and sculpture.

The module also explores the philosophical foundations of Indian aesthetics and examines how these principles continue to influence traditional and contemporary artistic practices.

Suggested Readings (with page numbers)

Coomaraswamy, Ananda K. The Transformation of Nature in Art. pp. 45–78

Vatsyayan, Kapila. The Square and the Circle of the Indian Arts. pp. 28–56

Kramrisch, Stella. The Hindu Temple (Selected Sections). pp. 35–62

Suggested Readings

Basham, A. L. The Wonder That Was India. pp. 310–340

Dehejia, Vidya. Indian Art. Selected Chapters

Module 2 (Lecture Hours Weeks 6-10)

Module Name: Indus Valley Civilization – Art and Material Culture

This module examines the artistic and cultural achievements of the Indus Valley Civilization with particular emphasis on architecture, sculpture, terracotta figurines, seals, pottery, ornaments, and urban planning. Students will study the visual language, symbolism, craftsmanship, and technological innovations of one of the world's earliest urban civilizations. The module also discusses the significance of archaeological discoveries from Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Dholavira, and Lothal in understanding the origins of Indian art traditions.

Suggested Readings with page numbers:

PaulBahn, Prehistoric Art, pp. 45–120.

David Lewis-Williams, The Mind in the Cave, pp. 1–80.

V.S. Wakankar, Bhimbetka: The Prehistoric Paradise, pp. 10–65.

Fred S. Kleiner, Gardner's Art Through the Ages, pp. 22–60.

Arnold Hauser, The Social History of Art, pp. 1–50.

Module 3 (Lecture Hours Weeks 11-15)

Module Name: Visual Analysis and Appreciation

Description:This module develops students' ability to observe, analyse, interpret, and appreciate artworks using historical, formal, and aesthetic approaches. Students will apply concepts studied in earlier modules to examine selected examples of early Indian art and material culture. Through visual analysis, classroom discussions, presentations, and case studies, they will develop critical thinking skills and understand how artistic traditions communicate cultural, historical, and social meanings.

Suggested Readings (with page numbers)

Gombrich, E. H. The Story of Art.

Berger, John. Ways of Seeing.

Honour, Hugh & Fleming, John. A World History of Art.