Tanjore (Tamil Nadu)

Opaque pigments and gold on panel

Parvati, crowned and dressed is an ostentatious golden sari, is seated on a plush swing balanced on a tree within a forest. On her lap sits her son Ganesha depicted as a child. Ganesha, naked but for his sumptuous jewellery carries an Ankusa (goad) and a Pasha (noose) in his hands.

Traditional Tanjore paintings were done on wooden panels which were typically seasoned teak wood or jack wood whose narrow strips were joined together. In some exceptional paintings precious stones were used as insets, but usually it was paste and strips of pure gold foil in which exquisite patterns were etched. Colours were prepared from natural extracts. There was a complete absence of light and shade effects except sometimes on the faces of the main figures. Strong bright and flat colours such as red, white, yellow, green and blue were used. Figures were often rotund, suggesting prosperity. Background colours were typically red, blue or green. The themes were predominantly religious but also included portraits of rulers and courtesans. Figures were usually placed within a pavilion with arches, curtains, pillars etc.

Painting Size (cms): 34 (H) x 28.5 (W)
Painting Size (inches): 13.4 (H) x 11.2 (W)

Framed Size (cms): 45.5(H) x 38.5(W)
Framed Size (inches): 18(H) x 15(W)