Is Real Gold Used in Tanjore Painting?

Oct 16, 2024

Tanjore painting, or Thanjavur painting, is a celebrated traditional art form from India that originated from Thanjavur. This captivates everyone with its vibrant colors and meticulous detail.

What truly sets it apart is the dazzling use of real gold, but is this just a myth or a beautiful reality?

The gold details, a key feature of Tanjore painting, are made using intricate gesso techniques on raised surfaces. They showcase the richness of India’s artistic heritage. The allure of these paintings goes beyond their aesthetic appeal; they embody history and craftsmanship.

Tanjore paintings in Chennai originally depicted Hindu gods and goddesses in all their glory, featuring large figures with round, divine faces.

Prepare to be amazed by the magic woven into each painting!

The Use of Real Gold in Tanjore Paintings

Yes, real gold is indeed used in authentic Tanjore paintings.

Tanjore paintings, originating from South India, use 22-karat gold leaves or gold foil in intricate designs.

The presence of real gold gives these paintings a shimmering, luminous look, making them stand out from other art forms. Gold foil in Thanjavur paintings not only enhances visual appeal but also protects and prolongs their lifespan due to its 22-carat shine.

The gold doesn’t fade over time, so the paintings continue to radiate brilliance even decades after their creators made them. Raman spectroscopy is a non-destructive technique that uses laser light to identify whether the gold foil in a Tanjore painting is genuine.

As a result, it is not surprising that gold appears in Thanjavur paintings.

The Process of Gold Application

The process of applying real gold in Tanjore paintings is intricate and requires great skill. Here’s a brief look at how it’s done:

The paintings are created on a wooden base called "Palagai Padam" for a solid base by using a paste made of chalk and binder.
This is followed by sketching the outline of the figure, usually gods and goddesses.
Artists apply a gesso paste for relief, place 22-karat gold foil sheets over this, glue them for an elevated glittering texture, and then press and dry.
Artists create intricate details using the gesso work technique, with muck powder and fine brushes for a 3D effect.
Natural and mineral colors like reds, blues, and greens are used, contrasting beautifully with gold to create a vibrant, regal masterpiece.
The final step is adding decorations like semi-precious American stones, Jaipur pearls, and many more for sparkle.

The Tanjore painting is completed with detailed details on the eyes, face, clothes, and jewelry to create a lifelike appearance.

Symbolism of Gold in Tanjore Art

Artists use gold in Tanjore paintings not just for aesthetic purposes; they embed deep cultural and spiritual symbolism. They have used gold in Thanjavur paintings since the 2nd century BC.

Gold was a symbol of wealth and status in the early modern era. Since these paintings were religious, they represent wealth, purity, auspiciousness, and divinity in Indian tradition.

People know Tanjore paintings for their gold leaf embellishments, which add spiritual meaning and elegance. The sparkling gold adds to the divine atmosphere of the gods and goddesses. Artists create a 3D aspect using gold foil in Tanjore art. Deities' jewelry, crowns, and halos are often highlighted with gold, symbolizing their supreme power and eternal light.

For example, in Lord Krishna's Tanjore Painting or Perumal Tanjore Painting, artists in Chennai highlight the radiant beauty of the Lord, with gold.

Preservation of Tradition

Thanjavur paintings, a painting style that flourished from the late 17th to the 19th century, were established under the patronage of Thanjavur's Nayaka and Maratha monarchs.

The tradition of using real gold in these paintings has been passed down through generations, making them a source of inspiration for art enthusiasts worldwide.

It makes them a source of wonder and inspiration for art enthusiasts worldwide in the 21st century, due to their authenticity and provenance. Despite modern technology and changing trends, true artisans of Tanjore paintings in Chennai uphold the legacy of their forefathers.

They carefully maintain traditional tools, techniques, and materials to preserve the authenticity of the art.

This tradition majorly contributes to why Tanjore paintings in Chennai and other parts of India remain so highly valued today.

The preservation and promotion of Tanjore paintings honor the artists who dedicated their lives to this art, ensuring it remains a valuable heritage for future generations.

Caring for Gold-Infused Tanjore Paintings

Owning a Tanjore painting with real gold is like having a piece of history in your home. However, art owners must take care of these artworks to maintain their beauty for years to come.

Choose the right frame to maintain the fine details and vivid colors of the Tanjore painting and use high-quality materials to safeguard it from UV rays.
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as it can dull the shine of the gold and cause the colors to fade.
Keep away from moisture, as it can be detrimental to the canvas and the gold leaf. It’s important to place these paintings in dry environments.
Use a soft, dry cloth to gently dust the surface of the painting. Avoid using water or cleaning agents, as these can harm the delicate gold leaf.
Frequently wipe the frame and glass with a gentle, dry cloth to keep it looking clean and new.

If art owners take these simple precautions, they will ensure that their paintings retain their brilliance for generations to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tanjore painting is not just a form of art but a reflection of India’s cultural heritage and artistic brilliance. The intricate use of real gold, along with traditional techniques, makes each painting a timeless masterpiece, full of beauty and spiritual depth. Each Tanjore painting serves as a golden piece of history, carrying forward a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate generations.

Explore authentic 'Thanjavur paintings India' online and experience their lasting beauty. Make a valuable purchase at Ethnic Tanjore Art and own a piece of Tanjore painting where the real gold showcases the rich cultural tradition behind it.