Different Styles and Themes of Pichwai Paintings
1. Pichwai Paintings of Shrinathji
Shrinathji is the seven-year-old manifestation of Lord Krishna and the deity at the temples of the Nathdwara region.
2. Radha Krishna Pichwai Paintings
Radha & Krishna feature in Pichwai works in the themes of the temple festivals, dances and celebrations of nature. They are usually depicted with lotuses, cows, peacocks and the Vrindavan landscapes as the backdrop. Radha symbolizes devotion and spiritual longing while Krishna symbolizes the divine, joy and loving consciousness.
3. Lotus Pichwai Art
The lotus is used both as a decorative motif and also the primary subject of the Kamal Talai Pichwais which exclusively feature the blooming lotus and its buds. They create an aura of serenity, auspiciousness, and devotion.
4. Cows and Gopis in Pichwai Paintings
The cows and gopis (milkmaids in Vrindavan) were central to Krishna’s childhood as a cowherd. While they’re often participants in the stories of celebrations, seasons and festivals alongside Krishna, there are also select works where the cows feature as central characters.
5. Ras Leela Pichwai Paintings
The Raas Leela is a tale from mythology where Krishna multiplies himself to dance with each gopi, representing a fulfillment of each devotee’s personal relationship with the divine. The paintings usually have Krishna at the center surrounded by gopis beneath the moonlight.
6. Miniature Pichwais
Traditionally large-sized works supposed to serve as backdrops to idols, miniature formats are modern Pichwai paintings that focus on specific details such as Shrinathji or the cows without too many background elements.
7. Contemporary Pichwais
Contemporary artists bring innovation without rewriting traditions, changing media (from cloth to paper/canvas), using mixed media, and exploring minimalist styles. These modern variations retain timeless tales, helping the art form stay alive while appealing to modern homes and collectors.
8. Pichwai Art Depicting Festivals & Seasons
Pichwai paintings traditionally depict Sharad Purnima, Holi, Annakut, and other festivals/seasonal transitions, each with distinctive visual cues and moods.
Gopashtami: Celebrates Krishna's journey to becoming a cowherd.
Janmashtami: Krishna’s birthday, shown with a cradle surrounded by his parents and villagers.
Nand Mahotsav: Follows Janmashtami, depicting Nanda & Yashoda with Krishna and rejoicing villagers.
Sharad Purnima: Celebrates the first full moon after Krishna’s birth, with moonlit dance scenes.
Vasant Panchami: Marks the arrival of spring and pre-Holi festivities.
Govardhan Puja: Depicts Krishna lifting the Govardhan hill to protect villagers.
Dolotsav (Holi in Nathdwara): Shows swinging deities and vibrant colors.
Chhappan Bhog: Features 56 delicacies offered to Shrinathji as part of temple rituals.
While we don’t list antique Pichwai paintings (provenance risks), artists like Kuldeepak Soni create antique-finish works using traditional techniques, ideal for contemporary homes. Explore Radha Krishna Painting, Spiritual & Mythological works, and more Indian art paintings on ArtFlute.
Artists Who Are Preserving Pichwai Art Traditions
ArtFlute’s collection celebrates artists who uphold this treasured tradition, drawing from Nathdwara’s ancestral artisan families. Among them, Kuldeepak Soni is admired for his commitment to traditional techniques and creative revival. A third-generation Pichwai artist from Bhilwara, Rajasthan, he follows his grandfather Shilp Guru Shri Badrilal Chitrakaar and father Sharad Soni, both National Awardees. His mastery of traditional Nathdwara style and contemporary renditions ensures timeless vibrancy using natural pigments. His works are collected by Amitabh Bachchan and Radhika Merchant and showcased at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. He continues the legacy by training and employing local youth in his workshops.
Why Choose ArtFlute's Pichwai Paintings Collection?
1. Authentic Hand-Painted Pichwai Artwork
Handcrafted works using centuries-old techniques and natural pigments, not mass prints.
2. Premium Quality & Long-Lasting Colours
Handmade cotton cloth, vivid mineral pigments, and gold for lasting radiance.
3. Perfect for Home Décor, Gifting & Puja Rooms
Why Buy Original Pichwai Paintings at ArtFlute?
100% Original Paintings
Only hand-crafted originals curated for art collectors and enthusiasts. Each work carries transparent pricing that reflects artisanal effort and legacy.
Certificate of Authenticity with Every Purchase
Each Pichwai painting includes documents and a Certificate signed by the artist confirming provenance.
Worldwide Shipping & Safe Delivery
Secure packing and logistics bring heritage to collectors globally.
