Although miniature painting is most often associated with Mughal art, it dates back many centuries in India where different styles developed. But, a major change in style occurred when Mughal rulers came with Persian artists to India. Thus a new, distinctive style of paintings came into existence which was a blend of Indian and Persian styles.

From the 16th century onwards, in Rajasthan, several distinct schools of painting have evolved and flourished - Mewar, Jaipur, Bikaner, Ajmer, Kishangarh, Shekhawati, Marwar and the Bundi-Kota schools. The four major schools are: Mewar, Marwar, Bundi-Kota, and Amber-Jaipur.

The art of miniature paintings is the most fascinating one that has flourished at Rajasthan and is famous the world over. The miniature paintings, with their intimate detail depiction of each scene and unambiguous use of vibrant colors indegeneously made out of minerals and vegetables, are truly splendid. Pure Gold and Silver is also used to decorate these paintings. Use of circular lines, light and shade from brush strokes to depict intense emotions, bold colors, dominating red and green in a simple two dimensional painting has become a speciality and distinctive feature of the miniature paintings from Rajasthan.

Miniature paintings are produced on silk, ivory, cotton, wood, marble, leather and old paper with subjects influenced by the surroundings- the deserts, lakes, hills and valleys, the flowing rivers, dense forests, lush green fields,  flowers and animals. Life of Lord Krishna was also highlighted.

Each school of painting with the uniqueness of Rajasthan art, also has its own distinctive features. The Bundi school uses rich colors against lush green jungles, which has become a landmark for other artists. Some unusual styles with one half of the painting white and the other half with figures in pale colors, has been given by Bundi school. Whereas, Kota School produce mainly paintings of sikhars and royal hunts. Mewar miniature paintings mainly consist of various aspects of court life. Paintings from Jodhpur and Marwar region are dominated by heroic men and warriors accompanied by innumerable horses and elephants. Paintings of the legendary lovers like Dhola-Maru are also very common.

Most of the miniature paintings portray the festivals, ceremonies, elephant fights and hunts, men and women with sharp features, graceful and well proportioned bodies symbolizing Rajasthan art. Shekhavati region, known for painted havelis, show excellent blend of eastern and western styles. The Raagamala paintings and those based on Geeta Govinda, Radha and Krishna form Jayadeva's classic composition, Romance and Poetry are treasures of Rajasthan.