Thanjavur painting or Tanjore painting originated in Tamil Nadu, India, and has been created there for centuries. It is created by hand in small shops run by skilled craftsmen who take their time to build each of the many layers of the work. The process is lengthy, requiring a great deal of patience. As you live with a piece of art for a period of time, you begin to realize that it does not have much of a "new" feeling after some time.The Tanjore paintings collection from Madhurya has pieces made from 22k gold leaf and handcrafted stones set in place by artisans who have created them with careful attention. The pieces seem to be meaningful and become an important part of the decor you have been living with for a while. Each piece seems to have been placed in the perfect spot over time
deity collections
Our collection is organised by deity, so you can go with what feels right to you. Krishna shows up in many forms , from a playful baby Krishna to one with a butter pot, or with his flute (Venugopal). These usually find a place in children’s rooms or home temples.Ganesha paintings are often placed near entrances, at home or even in workspaces welcoming fresh energy. They’re usually chosen when someone is starting something new. Lakshmi and Gajalakshmi pieces are picked around weddings or housewarmings, more as a gesture of prosperity and well-being.Saraswati paintings tend to sit in study or music spaces. They’re just something people like to have around where learning or practice happens. Balaji and Padmanabhaswamy paintings, with their heavier detailing and arches, work well if you’re trying to create a more temple-like corner at home. If you have a specific pose, altar size, or background in mind, we can also buy / commission a custom Tanjore painting online just for you.
Materials and technique
What stands out in a Tanjore painting is the way it comes together. Madhurya artists begin with a teak-wood base, layer it with cloth, and prepare the surface before sketching the form. From there, the work builds gradually. The raised details like jewellery, arches, ornamental elements are shaped using gesso, applied little by little.Gold leaf follows, along with stones and high quality colour. It’s a slow process, and it shows in the artwork. As the painting catches the light, the gold and stones reflect differently at every angle. That quiet depth is what sets it apart from anything printed.
Sizes and pricing
The various styles and designs of each Tanjore painting offer an opportunity to choose a size that will fit your home or office. There are several typical sizes, including small pieces that are perfect for desks or other small spaces, and they usually offer a lower price point; however, the large altars with their more ornate gold leaf work or extensive use of gemstones will be higher priced than small pieces. The standard sizes available are 5'x6', 10'x12', 12'x15', 16'x20' and 24'x18', and custom sizes may also be available by asking directly from our team.
Shipping and framing
While shipping we will pack your Tanjore painting with layers to protect the gold and jewels from damage. For your best results, we recommend that you get your Tanjore painting framed with quality glass and backing from a professional framer. If you don't choose to have it framed professionally, you have the option to buy panel sizes that are already framed; those panel sizes fit standard frame sizes.
