Indian paintings in medieval age evolved mainly during the age of the Mughals and consisted of several kinds of paintings like Rajput paintings, Mughal paintings, miniature paintings, Tanjore paintings and numerous others. The subjects of such paintings were influenced by mythological tales, figures and religious stories. Medieval Indian paintings also included masterpieces inscribed on palm leaves or `patra lekhana`. Wall paintings were extensively practiced even in the medieval era.

Rajput Paintings
Rajput paintings are a significant Indian painting which flourished during the medieval age in India. Various themes like that of the life of Lord Krishna, Ramayana, Mahabharata, picturesque landscapes, interior chambers of royal forts and `havelis` were popular. Rajput paintings thrived around the 18th century. The colours used were extracted from certain plants, conch shells and some minerals. Miniature Paintings were widely painted under this particular style of painting. Sometimes, extracts from processed silver, gold and precious stones were also employed in these paintings.

Mughal Paintings
Mughal paintings developed during the regime of the Mughal dynasty which can be traced from the 16th to 19th century. Like Rajput Paintings, Mughal paintings also favoured miniature paintings. These creations were a combination of Persian, Islamic and Indian styles. Some of the most reputed painters whose paintings blossomed during this age are Miskin, Daswant, Bishandas, Ustad Mansur, Mir Sayyad Ali, Basawan, Govardhan, Lal and many others. The paintings were used as book illustrations and also as singular albums. Mughal-styled paintings are practised even today by a few talented artisans based in Jaipur, Rajasthan. This art have been passed between several generations. Said Uddin and Rafi Uddin are among the few rare Mughal style painters in the present times.

Miniature Paintings
Indian miniature paintings were born in the 17th century and flourished during the reign of the Mughals, Hindu kings of Rajasthan and the Muslim rulers of the region of Deccan. They were believed to be inspired by mural paintings which evolved around the latter portion of the 18th century. The influence of the Mughals on miniature paintings is evident from the Persian motifs and style. Miniature paintings in India are quite attractive, though they are quite small in size. The colours employed are usually handmade and extracted from minerals, vegetables, conch shells, indigo, precious stones and metals like silver and gold. Delicate and skilled brushstrokes impart a unique visual appeal to these miniature paintings. Indian `ragas` are the most common themes of miniature paintings. Various schools across the nation provide lessons in miniature paintings like Pala School, Jain School, Rajasthani School, Mughal School and Orissa School.

Tanjore Paintings
Tanjore paintings are believed to have born around the ninth century in the state of Tamil Nadu during the rule of the Chola dynasty. Hindu mythology and religion were the main themes used in Tanjore paintings. This type of painting is indigenous to Tanjore town, Tamil Nadu. It is said that Tanjore paintings originated as early ninth century, during the rule of the Chola kings. Tanjore paintings were characterised by bright colours and emphasis on intricate details of painting.

Medieval Indian paintings utilized a unique blend of Indian and Persian painting styles which involved bright colours, abstract motifs and worldly subject matters. Scenes inside courts or palaces, religious deities, etc. were common in these paintings.