Understanding different art historical classifications is important when studying Indian painting. Various scholars have proposed terms to categorize and describe the diverse regional styles that existed over time. One such style is known as the Jain style of painting.

Classifying the Jain Style in Indian Art History

The style often referred to as the Jain style is primarily associated with illuminated manuscripts produced in western India, particularly Gujarat and Rajasthan, from about the 11th to the 16th centuries. These manuscripts often contain Jain religious texts and feature distinct artistic conventions, such as angular figures, protruding eyes, and vibrant colors.

Among the prominent scholars who studied and classified Indian art, Dr. Anand Kumaraswamy holds a significant place. Anand Kumaraswamy was a pioneering art historian and philosopher whose work greatly influenced the understanding of Indian aesthetics and art forms.

Anand Kumaraswamy and the "West Indian Style"

Anand Kumaraswamy, in his extensive research on Indian art, specifically identified this style of painting associated with Jain manuscripts as the "West Indian style". He used this geographical term to highlight the region where this specific artistic tradition flourished. His classification helped distinguish this style from other contemporary painting traditions in India.

Thus, when discussing the classification of this particular school of painting, Anand Kumaraswamy is the scholar credited with coining the term "West Indian style" to refer to what is also widely known as the Jain style.

Other scholars may have used different nomenclatures or focused on other aspects, but the association of Anand Kumaraswamy with the "West Indian style" classification for the Jain style is well-established in the field of Indian art history.