first please describe the artifact more completely–what does it look like and what is it made of? Then, you need to investigate further the historical context of the artifact and the way it reflects Indian culture. Consider some of these questions in your response:
Historical Influences
• What do the experts say about the history of the object—how it came to be, what it says about the historical experiences of the people or nation in which it originated?
• Are there historically important events, artistic trends, schools of thought or large-scale/national experiences that influenced the creator and are relevant to understanding the artifact?
• How has Indian history influenced the style, symbolism, materials or other characteristics of the artifact?
Cultural Influences
• What do authoritative sources say about this piece in terms of how the beliefs, priorities, norms, and values of the Indian people are expressed in it?
• What are some of the cultural values, preferences or norms that are expressed in the artifact’s style, symbolism, materials or other characteristics?
• Does it embody culturally specific ideas about what is considered beautiful, important, worthwhile, controversial, disturbing, just or meaningful? How so?
