13-11-2024
07:59 AM
Prelims: History of India and Indian National Movement.
Mains: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature, and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Tanjore or Thanjavur painting is a classical South Indian art form originating in the town of Thanjavur (Tanjore), Tamil Nadu, around 1600 AD. This vibrant style flourished under the Nayakas of Thanjavur, who were influenced by the Vijayanagara Rayas. Tanjore paintings are created on wooden panels, commonly known as palagai padam in local terminology.
Primarily serving as devotional icons, these paintings depict Hindu gods, goddesses, and saints, often illustrating episodes from Hindu Puranas and other religious texts. Influences from Deccani, Vijayanagara, Maratha, and even European styles can be seen, showcasing a diverse artistic heritage.
The origins of Thanjavur painting art can be traced back to around 1600 AD, during a time when the Nayakas of Thanjavur, under the influence of the Vijayanagara Rayas, actively promoted various art forms, including classical dance, music, and paintings focused mainly on Hindu religious themes within temples. However, the Tanjore painting style as we recognize it today emerged during the Maratha court in Thanjavur. Various artistic influences, including Deccani, Vijayanagara, Maratha, and even European painting techniques, played a significant role in shaping its evolution.
Tanjore paintings are renowned for their striking visual appeal and intricate craftsmanship. The meticulous detailing and ornamental elements reflect a rich artistic heritage influenced by various styles. Sarfoji Maharaj was the patron who helped these paintings reach their zenith. The key features of Tanjore Paintings are as follows:
Tanjore paintings are traditionally created on canvas affixed to wooden planks, typically made from jackfruit or teak, and bound with Arabic gum. The canvas is first coated with a paste of French chalk or powdered limestone, mixed with a binding medium, and left to dry. Detailed outlines of the subjects are then drawn using stencils.
Tanjore painting has received recognition from the Indian government for its cultural significance. The art form is protected under the Geographical Indications (GI) Act, ensuring that it is recognized as a unique product/art of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. This recognition helps in promoting traditional artisans and preserving the legacy of this intricate art form.
Q1. What is special about Tanjore Painting?
Ans. Tanjore painting is renowned for its vibrant colors, intricate gesso work, and the use of gold foils and gemstones.
Q2. Which state is famous for its Tanjore paintings?
Ans. Tamil Nadu is famous for Tanjore paintings.
Q3. What is the main feature of Tanjore painting?
Ans. The main features include rich and vivid colors, gold leaf embellishments, gesso work, and the depiction of spiritual subjects, often framed in architecturally defined spaces.
Q4. Who invented Tanjore Painting?
Ans. Tanjore painting evolved during the Nayaka dynasty in the 16th century, with contributions from various artists influenced by Deccani, Vijayanagara, and Maratha styles.
Q5. What do the Tanjore paintings depict?
Ans. Tanjore paintings predominantly depict Hindu gods, goddesses, saints, and scenes from Hindu epics and religious texts.
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