Ras lila

HISTORY

Pichwai paintings are beautiful examples of India’s traditional art and craftsmanship. The word ‘Pichwai’ comes from pich (back) and wai (textile wall hanging), as these paintings were once hung behind the idol of Srinathji in temples. Over time, handcrafted Pichwai art has evolved to include not just religious themes but also peaceful scenes of nature, flowers, and animals.

DESCRIPTION

This handcrafted Pichwai painting curated by Khenshu captures the ethereal grace of Shrinathji the divine manifestation of Lord Krishna surrounded by His devoted Gopis in a celestial celebration .At the heart of this Pichwai painting, Shrinathji stands adorned in intricate jewels, layered garlands, and an elaborate angavastra, his divine form emanating serenity and power.

Encircling the divine figure are Gopis in resplendent attire, each rendered in vivid hues of vermilion, emerald, indigo, and gold their rhythmic postures echoing the eternal dance of devotion. Behind them, lush banana leaves, dense trees, and a moonlit sky create a divine backdrop nature itself bowing in reverence. The upper register reveals celestial beings in golden chariots under the full moon, adding a touch of transcendence to this handcrafted tableau.

The lower section of the Pichwai comes alive with temple devotees, priests, and offerings fruits, flowers, and lamps arranged in sacred geometry symbolizing abundance and ritual harmony. A hand-painted border in deep coral and gold frames the central scene, featuring floral vines and sacred motifs, accentuating the symmetry and opulence that define Khenshu’s luxury art curation. This handcrafted Pichwai painting stands as a celebration of India’s artisanal legacy where craftsmanship meets divinity, and every stroke carries the quiet luxury of devotion.

MATERIALS: Locally sourced - all organic crushed stone dyes, Fine spun cotton.

PROCESS AND CRAFT

Our paintings are made on fine spun cotton fabric using all natural organic dyes made from crushed natural stones found in Hilly regions of northern India.

The crushed stones are mixed with natural gum and water to form paint-like consistency.

The artwork is further adorned with gold leaf, sometimes 24 karat gold leaf to give it life.

These Pichwai paintings are also made on canvas or paper.

NOTE: Vintage inspired Paintings often have intentional discolouration and creases, made to add value and retain its authentic vintage aura. These are authentic paintings made by Indian artisans.

CARE

The painting should not be regularly cleaned, but only when required. The front of the painting should be cleaned gently with a soft brush to remove the loose dust on the painted surface.

If you want to use the painting without a glass backing, keep the painting away from moisture and humidity.

If you want to have an artwork in a location where there is direct sunlight at times, do consider having it framed behind a UV protected glass.

Paintings made on paper or canvas need to be framed in glass.