Thanjavur Paintings

Thanjavur (or Tanjore) paintings is an exquisite and traditional South Indian form of painting which originates from Thanjavur, in South India. This complicated art form typically depicts Indian Gods and Goddesses in all their glory and splendor with a generous use of thin sheets of gold foil and semi-precious stones in bold colors.
The sketch is made on a thin sheet of fabric spread over the wooden plank. Zinc Oxide or chalk powder is mixed with adhesive to provide that embossed feel for the various areas of the subject. Several areas, including the jewellery of the Gods and Goddesses and the backgrounds are then covered with the gold foil to give unique richness to the painting. The semi precious stones in different sizes and in vivid colors are studded in appropriate areas. The outline is usually done in black or in brown.The resulting painting is ornate, elaborate and intricate.
Another important characteristic of the Thanjavur paintings is the beautiful and broad eyes of the subject. Usually, the primary subject of the Thanjavur paintings is Lord Krishna. But i have one with my favorite God.

This is a Thanjavur painting of my favorite Goddess, Madurai Meenakshi with Lord Sundareshwarar

Notice the usage of gold for all the decorations and jewellery and even in the sari of the Goddess

Semi-precious stones of various shapes, sizes in green and red are used to decorate and add to the beauty of the painting

Intricate designs and minute detailing is also evident in Thanjavur paintings.

Thursday Challenge- Money 2nd week.