Prelims: Current events of national and international importance
Why in News?
The Department of Posts Transports a Priceless Thanjavur Masterpiece of The Divine Shri Ram from Bengaluru to Ayodhya using its Logistics Post service.
Thanjavur painting (also known as Tanjore painting) is a classical South Indian art form originating from the town of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu around 1600 AD.
Origins -The style flourished under the patronage of the Nayakas of Thanjavur and later reached its zenith during the Maratha rule (17th–19th centuries).
Renowned for its opulence, it is characterized by rich, vivid colours, intricate gesso work (relief work), and the use of genuine 22-carat gold foil and semi-precious stones.
Key Features & Technique
Materials - Traditionally done on wooden planks (typically jackfruit or teak), leading to the local name Palagai Padam. Modern versions often use plywood.
Gesso Work - A paste of limestone powder and Arabic gum is used to create embossed, 3D patterns.
Gold Embellishment - Thin sheets of 22-carat or 24-carat gold foil are pasted over the relief work to provide a lasting, glittering sheen.
Ornaments - The paintings are often inlaid with glass beads, pearls, or semi-precious stones to highlight jewellery and architectural elements like arches (Prabhavalis).
Common Themes
The primary subjects are devotional, featuring Hindu deities and scenes from religious texts:
Krishna - Popular depictions include "Butter-Thief Krishna" or Yashoda-Krishna.
Lakshmi & Ganesha - Often used for pooja rooms to signify prosperity.
Mythological Events- The coronation of Rama (Rama Pattabhishekam) and the wedding of Meenakshi (Meenakshi Thirukalyanam) are recurring themes.
GI Tag -Thanjavur paintings were officially granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2007.
