<div style=' background:#FFFFFF;color:#000000;font-family:Verdana;width:auto;padding:5px;max-height:100%;'><span><p class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW145049678 BCX0" style="margin-bottom: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; overflow: visible; cursor: text; clear: both; position: relative; direction: ltr;"><p class="Paragraph SCXW145049678 BCX0" paraid="2005549030" paraeid="{65330425-fac0-412c-9e43-48a5590d4b8c}{188}" style="margin-bottom: 10.6667px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; overflow-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: baseline; font-kerning: none; background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Thanjavur painting, a classical South Indian art form, traces its roots to the town of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu. Originating around 600 AD, during the Nayaka rule, this unique style flourished under the patronage of the Vijayanagara Rayas. Recognized as a Geographical Indication by the Government of India in 07–08, Thanjavur painting is renowned for its distinctive use of gold coating. Historical Evolution and Unique Characteristics:Thanjavur paintings are characterized by vivid colors, iconic compositions, and the famous gold foils. The art form reflects influences from Deccani, Vijayanagara, Maratha, and even European styles. Typically serving as devotional icons, these paintings predominantly feature Hindu gods, goddesses, and saints. However, instances of Jain, Sikh, Muslim, and secular subjects also find representation. <br></span></p><p class="Paragraph SCXW145049678 BCX0" paraid="2005549030" paraeid="{65330425-fac0-412c-9e43-48a5590d4b8c}{188}" style="margin-bottom: 10.6667px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; overflow-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: baseline; font-kerning: none; background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Historical Influences and Evolution of the Art The history of Thanjavur painting is deeply intertwined with the rise and fall of empires. The Vijayanagara empire played a crucial role in preserving Hindu artistic traditions. The migration of artists to Thanjavur after the fall of Vijayanagara contributed to the formation of the Thanjavur style. Subsequently, under Maratha rule, the art flourished, reaching its pinnacle during the reign of Serfoji II. <br></span></p><p class="Paragraph SCXW145049678 BCX0" paraid="2005549030" paraeid="{65330425-fac0-412c-9e43-48a5590d4b8c}{188}" style="margin-bottom: 10.6667px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; overflow-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: baseline; font-kerning: none; background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Style and Technique Traditionally executed on wooden planks, Thanjavur paintings, locally known as palagai padam, have become souvenirs for festive occasions in South India. The intricate process involves using a canvas pasted on wood, intricate gesso work, and inlay of glass beads and gems. The use of gold leaves, precious stones, and a vibrant color palette distinguishes Thanjavur paintings. The artists, often from the Raju and Nayudu communities, applied their skills to create sacred artworks with ritual purity.</span><br></p></p><span></div><div style=' background:#FFFFFF;color:#000000;font-family:Verdana;width:auto;padding:5px;max-height:100%;'><span><p>Influences and Comparisons&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Tanjore paintings share influences with other South Indian styles like Kalamkari and Tirupati paintings. The syncretic nature of Thanjavur painting is evident in its assimilation of Tamil, Telugu, Maratha, European, and Deccani influences. The style, although distinct, also exhibits similarities with Mysore paintings, reflecting the constant transmigration of artists and ideas between these regions.&nbsp;<br></p><p><br></p><p>Modern Revival and Challenges&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<br></p><p>Despite facing challenges in the modern era, including changing materials and commercialization, Thanjavur paintings continue to be created. Revival programs, workshops, and exhibitions contribute to keeping this traditional art form alive. Contemporary artists draw inspiration from the iconic style and aesthetics of Thanjavur paintings, incorporating them into mixed-media artworks on various surfaces.</p><span></div>