Gold-Plated: Thanjavur paintings are a collector’s pride

Known for their surface richness, vivid colours and compact composition, the subjects of these paintings are mostly Hindu gods and goddesses. Elaborate scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata generally surround the central figure.

Making a Thanjavur painting goes beyond just colouring the canvas. Preparing the base by applying chalk powder or zinc oxide, sketching and finally decorating the jewellery and apparel with semi-precious stones, are all part of the lengthy and painstaking multi-stage process. The final finish requires pasting gold foil on the outline of the figures and their crowns, weapons, etc, to give the piece an ageless shine — a family heirloom passed through generations.

A small 10-inch painting can be bought for as little as Rs 1,500-2,000. The price of the bigger ones of course can run into lakhs. The price tag makes a Thanjavur an ideal gift for festivals, though some art lovers also like to include it in their collections.

State emporia and big fairs, such as the one going on at Surajkund in Haryana till 15 February, are the best places to hunt for some of these exclusive masterpieces.

(Businessworld Issue 17-23 Feb 2009)