Devotion in Colours and Gold: The Art of Tanjore Paintings

Tanjore Painting, also known by the name Thanjavur Painting, is an ancient South Indian art form that was named after the city from where it originated. Locally, Tanjore Paintings  are also called ‘Palagai Padam’ means picture on a wooden plank as these paintings are  crafted on wooden planks. The innovative painting style, vibrant colours, iconic composition and surface richness make Tanjore Paintings unique and popular across the world. Each Tanjore Painting is embellished with glass beads, semi-precious gems and stones, vibrant natural colours and glittering gold foil. All these provide a three-dimensional effect to 
the painting.The art form got its original inspiration from 1600 A.D., when the Nayaks were under the control of Rayas of Vijayanagar. During this period, Rayas encouraged various forms of classical art, including dance, painting, music and literature. However, the painting style as we know it today is highly influenced by the Maratha court of Tanjore. In 2007-2008, the Government of India recognized Tanjore Painting as a Geographical Indication. The skilled artisans use this painting style to paint the portraits of Hindu Gods and Goddesses in different postures.