<P> The colors extracted from certain minerals, plant sources, conch shells, and were even derived by processing precious stones, gold and silver were used . The preparation of desired colors was a lengthy process, sometimes taking weeks . Brushes used were very fine . </P> <P> Mughal painting is a particular style of Indian painting, generally confined to illustrations on the book and done in miniatures, and which emerged, developed and took shape during the period of the Mughal Empire 16th − 19th centuries . </P> <P> Tanjore painting is an important form of classical South Indian painting native to the town of Tanjore in Tamil Nadu . The art form dates back to the early 9th century, a period dominated by the Chola rulers, who encouraged art and literature . These paintings are known for their elegance, rich colors, and attention to detail . The themes for most of these paintings are Hindu Gods and Goddesses and scenes from Hindu mythology . In modern times, these paintings have become a much sought after souvenir during festive occasions in South India . </P> <P> The process of making a Tanjore painting involves many stages . The first stage involves the making of the preliminary sketch of the image on the base . The base consists of a cloth pasted over a wooden base . Then chalk powder or zinc oxide is mixed with water - soluble adhesive and applied on the base . To make the base smoother, a mild abrasive is sometimes used . After the drawing is made, decoration of the jewellery and the apparels in the image is done with semi-precious stones . Laces or threads are also used to decorate the jewellery . On top of this, the gold foils are pasted . Finally, dyes are used to add colors to the figures in the paintings . </P>

Who is accredited with the refinement of oil paint