Tanjore Painting

Thanjavur painting is a classical South Indian painting style, which was inaugurated from the town of Thanjavur (anglicized as Tanjore). During the rule of Cholas, Thanjavur served as the capital of the empire. Even after the defeat of Cholas, the town has been ruled by various dynasties such as Pandya’s, Vijayanagar Empire, Madurai Nayaks, Thanjavur Nayaks, Thanjavur Marathas, and British Empire. Since 1947, it’s been a part of India.

The art form dates back to the early 9th century, a period dominated by the Chola rulers, who encouraged art and literature. Thanjavur paintings furtherly patronized by the Maratha princes, Nayakas of the Vijayanagar Empire, Rajus of Tanjore and Tiruchirappalli, and the Naidus of Madurai.

These paintings are known for their elegance, rich colors, and attention to detail. The themes for most of these paintings are Hindu Gods and Goddesses and scenes from Hindu mythology.

They are characterized by rich, flat, vivid colors and simple iconic composition. Tanjore paintings are panel paintings and it is done on wooden planks and so it is called as palagai padam (palagai - wooden plan , padam-picture ).

The painting would be bright & colourful and breathtakingly beautiful. The impact in a darkened room is that of a glowing presence. While most of the paintings would depict the Child Krishna and his various pranks, paintings of other deities were also created. Now a days it has been use as a colorful pieces of art to decorate walls and many purposes.
Tanjore Painting