The aura of court (vintage)

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

At the center, Shrinathji stands adorned in exquisite attire, rendered in shimmering tones of gold, saffron, and indigo. The Lord holds up Mount Govardhan in his iconic gesture, while his richly jeweled crown and delicate garlands radiate divine opulence. Surrounding him are four Gopis, intricately detailed, each engaged in offering flowers and singing praises  symbolic of unwavering devotion.

The upper register of the composition is illuminated by a celestial moon, accompanied by ethereal beings playing instruments evoking a divine symphony that fills the sacred night of Vrindavan. Lush banana trees and flowering vines form a vivid backdrop, reflecting the abundance of nature in Krishna’s divine abode.

The lower panel beautifully extends the narrative a panoramic view of temples, devotees, and the Yamuna river, painted in rhythmic harmony. The lotus pond at the base symbolizes purity and spiritual awakening, grounding the divine scene in serenity.

Framing the composition is an ornate floral and figural border, featuring miniature depictions of Shrinathji in different postures and rituals  a hallmark of traditional Pichwai design. The painting’s palette glows with hand-ground natural pigments gold, vermilion, indigo, and emerald lending timeless vibrancy to its devotional aura.

This luxury handcrafted Pichwai stands as a celebration of heritage artistry, sacred storytelling, and divine opulence each brushstroke echoing the devotion of generations of Pushtimarg painters. Perfect for collectors and connoisseurs of traditional Indian art, it transforms any space into a sanctum of beauty and spiritual grace.

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.