Thanjavur paintings originated in the town of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu and are among the most celebrated classical painting styles of South India. They are made on wooden planks, which is why they are locally called Palagai Padam, where palagai means wooden plank and padam means picture. Their defining features are flat, rich colors with a compact composition, the use of 22 karat gold leaf or gold foil, and embellishments of semi-precious stones, pearls, and cut glass. A raised, relief-like effect is created with gesso, a paste of chalk powder or limestone and a binder, and the central figure, usually a deity, is framed within an arch or a canopy.
History & Origin
The art form flourished in the 16th to 18th centuries and traces its roots to the Vijayanagara Empire, whose rulers promoted art and architecture across South India. After the empire declined, the Nayaks of Thanjavur (c. 1600 to 1675) became major patrons, and the style developed further. The Marathas, who ruled Thanjavur from the late 17th century, continued the patronage, and the art reached a high point under rulers such as Serfoji II. The painters, known as the Rajus and Naidus communities, migrated with the Vijayanagara rulers and settled in Thanjavur and nearby areas such as Tiruchirappalli and Madurai. During the colonial period, European tastes influenced some works, and paintings began to be made for visitors and collectors. Today the tradition is carried on by artisans and cultural institutions, and the art is practiced in Thanjavur and also in Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu.
Cultural Significance
The paintings are primarily devotional and are kept in homes, temples, and puja rooms as objects of worship. Subjects include Lord Krishna (especially as a child), Lord Rama’s coronation (Rama Pattabhishekam), Shiva, Vishnu, Lakshmi, Murugan, Ganesha, and scenes from the Puranas. They are traditionally gifted at weddings, housewarmings, and festivals as symbols of auspiciousness and prosperity. The art reflects the religious and cultural life of Tamil Nadu and the patronage traditions of South Indian temples, and it supports artisan families and communities, many of whom have practiced the craft across generations.
At a Glance
State / Region
Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur (Tanjore) district, Cauvery Delta region, South India
Interesting Facts
The process starts with a pencil or charcoal sketch on cloth pasted on a wooden board, traditionally jackfruit or teak wood. The raised gesso work is done before the gold foil is applied, which gives the paintings their three-dimensional effect. Traditionally, natural pigments and vegetable dyes were used, though modern artists often use synthetic colors. Gold leaf does not tarnish, so the paintings retain their shine for decades or even centuries. The faces of the figures usually have rounded features, almond-shaped eyes, and a serene expression, and large panels can take weeks or even months to complete. Thanjavur is also known for other crafts such as bronze casting and Thanjavur dolls (Thalaiyatti Bommai).