Tale of Reva

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 luxury Pichwai painting is a magnificent depiction of Govardhan Leela, one of the most revered tales from Lord Krishna’s life. At the center, Krishna stands gracefully beneath the lifted mountain, rendered in luminous tones of blue and lavender, symbolizing divinity and calm amidst chaos. The villagers, cattle, and gopis each delicately hand-painted seek refuge under his divine shelter, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of faith and protection.

The mountain, clouds, and rain are painted with rhythmic precision and fine linework, illustrating the artist’s mastery over traditional Nathdwara Pichwai techniques. The palette dominated by soft beige, muted gold, serene blues, and earthy ochres evokes an aura of luxury minimalism while staying true to the grandeur of Indian devotional art. The gold leaf embellishments and minute ornamental details further elevate this Pichwai into a work of handcrafted luxury.

Each element from the stylized clouds to the sacred cows and lush flora narrates a story of Krishna’s divine play (leela) and the harmony between nature and spirituality. The hand-painted borders frame the central composition with ornamental motifs, completing this visual hymn of devotion and artistry.

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.