(THE GIST OF PIB) Thanjavur Painting

(DECEMBER-2025)

Thanjavur Painting

Recently, the Department of Posts successfully undertook the transmission of a priceless Thanjavur painting of the Shri Ram from Bengaluru to Ayodhya using its Logistics Post service.

About Thanjavur Painting:

It is a classical South Indian art form originating in the town of Thanjavur (Tanjore), Tamil Nadu, around 1600 AD.
Tanjore or Thanjavur paintings are created on wooden panels, commonly known as palagai padam.
It was flourished under the Nayakas of Thanjavur.

Features of Thanjavur Painting

Tanjore paintings are traditionally created on canvas affixed to wooden planks, typically made from jackfruit or teak, and bound with Arabic gum.
Rich Colors: These paintings are known for their vibrant colors. They often use bright shades of red, blue, green, and gold leafwork to create an opulent effect.
Gesso Work: It is one of the unique features of Tanjore paintings is the use of gesso work. Gesso is a mixture of chalk, gypsum, and glue applied to the surface to create embossed patterns and motifs.
Theme: Tanjore paintings typically depict Hindu gods and goddesses, especially figures like Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Lakshmi.
Gold Leaf: Gold foil or leaf is extensively used in Tanjore paintings to embellish the artwork.
It has received the Geographical Indication tag.