tanjore painting

TANJORE PAINTING

Tanjore means from Thanjavur , a place in Tamil Nadu.• Originated in the reign of Chola

dynasty as seen in temples like Brihadeeshwara built in 1010AD by Chola dynasty.• The style of Tanjore paintings are

similar.

Painting on wall of Brihadeeshwara temple, Thanjavur.

Mural on wall of Brihadeeshwara temple.

• Artform dates to 1600AD during rule of Nayaks when they encouraged art chiefly classical dance and music.

• Later in 18th century Gupta period also encouraged and almost every house had a Tanjore painting.

• The painting decorated palaces and temples.

Structure

• Tanjore paintings are known for surface richness, vivid colours, compact composition.

• Main feature- Gold foils are used.• Previously rubies and precious stones were

used.• Today semi-precious stones and glass is used

instead.• They are panel paintings done on solid wood

plank. •

Method

• Cloth is spread on wooden plank usually of Jackfruit tree.

• Limestone paste to smoothen surface and gum to stick the cloth.

• A sketch of painting is made on cloth.• Semi-precious stones are stuck• Embossing and relief work is done.• Gold foil is applied • Colours are then added.

Style

• Figures are usually well-rounded.• Usually red and green used for background• Yellow for Goddess• Blue for Vishnu• White for Nataraja