Exploring Tanjore Painting: A Legacy of South Indian Art

History of Tanjore Paintings

The tradition of Tanjore painting dates back to the vibrant Indian art scene of the 16th century, flourishing under the patronage of the Vijayanagara Rayas, who ruled southern India through the Nayaka Governors. These Nayakas were known for their enthusiastic support of both artistic and literary endeavors.

When the Maratha rulers took over the region in 1676, they continued this tradition of patronage, leading to a golden age for Tanjore painting. The art form evolved into the distinctive style we recognize today, with grand depictions of deities, Maratha rulers, courtiers, and nobility adorning the walls of Maratha palaces. These paintings, with their rounded facial features, almond-shaped eyes, and graceful figures, became an integral part of India's beautiful Indian paintings collection.

The Company Style

As Maratha rule declined, the British presence in Tanjore increased, particularly after the Mysore Wars of 1767-99. By 1773, a British garrison was established in Tanjore, and local artists began crafting paintings for British patrons. These works, known as Company style paintings, catered to English tastes while retaining the essence of Tanjore artistry..

These paintings differed from traditional Tanjore works by minimizing or omitting the use of gold foil and glass or gem inlays. Instead, they focused on "native" or "Indian" themes that fascinated the British, such as fairs, ceremonies, festivals, and Indian flora and fauna. Despite these changes, the Company style paintings preserved the intricate detailing and vibrant colors typical of Tanjore, making them highly sought after in online art galleries today.

Traditional Tanjore Painting Techniques

Tanjore painting, also known as palagai padam, meaning "picture on a wooden plank," is traditionally created on boards made from jackfruit or teak wood. These paintings are celebrated for their vibrant color palette and distinctive gold leaf embellishments. Additionally, artists often incorporate cut glass, pearls, and precious or semi-precious stones into their designs, adding to the paintings' opulent appeal.

In the past, natural colors were derived from vegetable and mineral dyes, but over time, chemical paints have become more common. The striking color spectrum of Tanjore paintings, featuring vivid reds, blues, and greens, continues to captivate art enthusiasts. These artworks often depict scenes from Hindu mythology, such as Bal Krishna and Lord Rama, as well as other deities, saints, and mythological subjects. For those looking to add a piece of original artwork to their Indian art collection, Tanjore paintings offer a perfect blend of historical significance and aesthetic beauty.

Diverse Artistic Styles in Tanjore Painting

Tanjore painting reflects the diverse cultural influences of its patrons and also draws from other notable styles within the Vijayanagara school, such as Kalamkari and Tirupati. Tirupati paintings, which originated in the temple town of Tirupati, depicted deities using various intricate techniques.

Another significant influence on traditional Indian art, particularly in southern India, is reverse glass painting. Many of these artworks drew inspiration from Tanjore paintings, portraying religious figures with vibrant colors and embellishments like metallic foils, enhancing the visual appeal and making them highly prized collectible artwork..

Mysore painting, another popular art form, shares similarities with Tanjore painting and often causes confusion among artists and collectors. Both styles were practiced by artists from the Raju and Naidu communities and trace their origins to the Vijayanagara era. However, Mysore paintings typically use paper as their base and employ less gold foil, glass beads, and gemstones compared to Tanjore paintings, making each style distinct in its own right.

Conclusion

Tanjore painting stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of South India, offering a unique glimpse into the artistic traditions that have shaped Indian art over centuries. Whether you're exploring an online art gallery or curating your personal Indian art collection, a Tanjore painting serves as a timeless piece of original artwork. Its intricate details, vibrant colors, and cultural significance make it a valuable addition to any beautiful Indian paintings collection. As a collectible artwork, it not only enriches your space but also connects you to the legacy of South Indian artistry.