Tanjore Painting, Features, Techniques, GI Tag

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.

Tanjore Painting History

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 Painting Features

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 incorporate glittering gold foils, layered over intricate and extensive gesso work, along with inlays of glass beads and precious and semi-precious gems.
• Primarily serving as devotional icons, these paintings often depict Hindu gods, goddesses, and saints.
• Episodes from Hindu Puranas, and other religious texts are visualized and painted, with the main figures prominently placed in the central area of the artwork.
• The majority of the paintings showed a smiling Krishna in a variety of positions, representing important moments in his life.

Tanjore Painting Techniques

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.

• The gesso work, which forms the textured surface, is made from a blend of limestone powder and a binding agent known as sukkan or makku.
• Gold leaf and gems are carefully inlaid in select areas, adding a distinctive, ornate touch. Finally, colors are applied to complete the painting.
• These artworks can vary in size and are sometimes created on walls, glass, or even ivory.

Tanjore Painting GI Tag

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.