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How did the Citrasutra describe the most important features of a painting?
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South Asian arts
The mridangam, the principal drum of the Carnatic music tradition.
The Citrasutra, a classical text on art, identifies several noteworthy factors in painting, each valued by different groups for their specific aesthetic contributions:
- Line sketch: Considered the highest element by masters, it must be drawn firmly and gracefully.
- Shading and modelling: Valued by others for their ability to suggest volume and depth.
- Decorative element: Noted for its particular appeal to feminine taste.
- Splendour of colour: Recognized for its appeal to common taste.
Ultimately, the text emphasizes that the most admirable technique is the use of a minimum of drawing to produce the maximum effect in suggesting form.1